The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated RIVM reference laboratory for COVID-19. A recognition of our wide-ranging and in-depth expertise on coronaviruses. This video anwers 4 questions about the WHO reference laboratory for COVID-19. Watch the video.

Some adults and children with severely impaired immunity may be referred for an additional COVID-19 vaccination at any point during the year, if advised by a treating physician. People with a referral for an extra COVID-19 vaccination can contact the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) for an appointment all year round.

Please note: this page is under development

RIVM has been fighting infectious diseases for over a century. The coronavirus pandemic was not an isolated incident. Through the ages, the Netherlands and other countries have faced many pandemics and epidemics, including the Spanish flu and smallpox.  This video was made at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

RIVM and UMC Groningen will be measuring how the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 spreads in an indoor space. The study will also look at how far the virus can spread and whether the virus particles are still contagious over longer distances. 

RIVM stands for a healthy population in a sustainable, safe and healthy environment for current and future generations. RIVM achieves impact by connecting science to practice and policy. We offer advice based on scientific knowledge and research, we coordinate prevention programmes, and we stand ready to act in times of crisis. Within RIVM and beyond, we work with organisations and people with various areas of expertise and backgrounds. Together, we are RIVM and we work in a safe and learning organisation.