The Dutch Health Council advises raising the age limit for the annual coronavirus booster from 60 to 70 years. People in their sixties may still qualify based on specific health conditions. However, age alone will no longer grant eligibility for this group.
Shifting risk profiles and medical exceptions
The Council’s recommendation stems from data showing that hospitalisation risks increase significantly at age 70. Consequently, the Minister of Health must now make a final decision on this policy shift. Despite the higher age limit, the Council still recommends the vaccine for individuals in their fifties and sixties who belong to medical risk groups. This includes patients with conditions such as COPD, diabetes, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, or dementia.
Furthermore, the advice covers all children and adults in high-risk categories. For example, the Council prioritises those with leukaemia, kidney failure, immune disorders, or severe obesity. This guidance applies to the upcoming autumn vaccination round and the 2027 period.
Timeline and participation trends
Health Minister Sophie Hermans confirmed in a letter to the House of Representatives that the government will adopt this advice for 2026. Nevertheless, she noted that the ministry currently lacks the budget to offer the programme in 2027. This decision follows a broader trend of narrowing eligibility. For instance, the Council previously determined the jab was unnecessary for healthy adults aged 18 to 49 who receive the annual flu shot.
Recent data shows a steady decline in public participation. Approximately 2.25 million people were vaccinated last autumn. In contrast, 2.5 million people sought the booster the previous year, following a peak of 2.7 million in 2023.
@ anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
