Health

Oak processionary caterpillars have been spotted earlier than ever this spring, breaking the previous record by a full week. Experts warn that warm March weather is accelerating their development, raising the risk of irritation caused by their stinging hairs.

A new report reveals that many families in the Netherlands are receiving less maternity care than recommended due to severe staff shortages. The decline in support hours is particularly pronounced among vulnerable groups and in specific regions such as Zeeland and South Limburg. Experts are now calling for a more flexible approach to ensure all newborns get a healthy start.

Philips has maintained its position as the top Dutch applicant at the European Patent Office, leading the way in medical technology. The company filed over 1,200 patents in 2025, focusing heavily on AI-driven healthcare solutions and sustainable diagnostic imaging. These innovations are part of a broader goal to improve billions of lives globally by the end of the decade.

A Dutch women's rights group is headed back to court to challenge a ruling that cleared a major manufacturer of liability for health complications. The appeal seeks to hold the company accountable for 60,000 women who reported serious illnesses following their procedures.

Forget tulips, bikes and canals - the Dutch cheese just stole the spotlight. Beemster Royaal Grand Cru was crowned as the world's best cheese...

A new autonomous robot is helping nurses spend more time with patients by taking over delivery tasks in busy hospitals. The innovation has earned a nomination for a major national award, with the public now invited to vote for the winner.

Researchers at Erasmus MC in Rotterdam have solved a long-standing mystery by discovering why certain bird flu strains become more lethal than others. Their study reveals that a specific enzyme can get "stuck" while the virus is replicating, causing genetic "mistakes" that lead to more dangerous mutations. This breakthrough could help scientists understand how other high-risk viruses, such as Ebola, evolve and spread. The discovery comes at a critical time for the poultry industry, as a mandatory housing order remains in place following the culling of over 2 million chickens at dozens of infected farms.

Recent data shows a sharp increase in hay fever cases compared to previous years. While warm weather has triggered early symptoms for many, experts suggest that upcoming weather changes may provide some relief.