RIVM

More than 3,500 people died during last week’s extreme heat in the Netherlands, according to RIVM. Mortality was around 480 deaths higher than expected, mainly among people aged 80 and older, with the largest impact in the east and south of the country.

The National Heat Plan ended on Monday after being active for eleven days. During the period, the RIVM sent heat-related guidance to organisations and caregivers to help protect vulnerable groups. The institute also offered practical advice to limit health risks during hot weather.

The RIVM has issued a smog alert for the central and southern Netherlands, warning of poor air quality on Wednesday and Thursday due to a build-up of air pollution on hot, windless days. The pollution will severely impact areas including Utrecht, Flevoland, and Noord-Brabant before shifting south on Thursday. Health officials advise vulnerable groups—such as children, the elderly, and asthma patients—to remain indoors and avoid strenuous activity during the late afternoon and early evening when pollution levels peak.

The RIVM has revealed that reducing fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide emissions will generate greater health gains by 2030 than previously forecast. While current policies are on track to meet domestic targets, several industrial and high-traffic zones still fall short of upcoming European air quality requirements. Regional authorities must now introduce targeted local measures around major ports, airports, and motorways to bridge the compliance gap.

Recent research reveals that over a third of Dutch children were infected with whooping cough following the lifting of pandemic restrictions. While vaccines continue to prevent severe illness, health officials are now calling for closer monitoring as immunity levels fluctuate.

The RIVM is calling on people to stay alert for tick bites during Tick Awareness Week. Reports on Tekenradar.nl have increased, raising the risk of Lyme disease. Health services advise thorough checks after time in nature or even in the garden.

Outgoing State Secretary for Youth Judith Tielen is advising parents and organisations to stop children from using play sand, craft sand, and squeeze toys for the time being due to potential asbestos contamination. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) is currently testing approximately 100 samples to determine if they exceed the legal limit of 0.1 per cent asbestos, with results expected in approximately two weeks. While a total ban cannot be issued until the specific health risks are confirmed by the RIVM, the advisory remains in place as a precaution for schools, nurseries, and households.

A new vaccination programme has successfully reduced intensive care admissions for infants with the RS virus by 75 per cent. The RIVM reports that the high uptake of the jab has significantly eased the pressure on Dutch paediatric hospitals this winter.