Self-sampling device to be sent automatically, making it easier to take part in cervical cancer screening From the first week of July, every woman turning 30 will receive a self-sampling device with their invitation for cervical cancer screening. Participants can use this device to collect their own vaginal material.
No major change in air quality in the Netherlands in 2022 The overall air quality in 2022 was slightly worse than in 2021. Weather conditions such as temperature and drought played an important role in this difference. This is according to the large-scale concentration maps published by RIVM each year.
Reactor shut down will cause global medical isotope shortage Shutting down the current Dutch reactor which produces medical isotopes, without replacing it, puts the world’s supply of medical radio-isotopes at risk.
National Heat Plan no longer in effect as of July 29th As of Monday, 29 July, the National Heat Plan is no longer in effect. The Heat Plan had been active from July 23rd until July 28th. Never before has it been as hot as last week in the Netherlands.
Tick found in Drenthe is a Hyalomma tick RIVM has investigated the so-called giant tick that was found in Odoorn in the province of Drenthe on 13 July. It is a Hyalomma marginatum female.
National Heat Plan active throughout the Netherlands It is forecasted to be exceptionally hot over the coming days. Temperatures will rise to tropical levels. This can lead to problems for people with vulnerable health.
Screening for chronic Q-fever is only cost-effective for specific groups RIVM has investigated for which groups screening for chronic Q-fever might be cost-effective.
Pneumococcal disease in the elderly The Health Council of the Netherlands is preparing an advice on pneumococcal vaccination for the elderly on request of the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport.
Statement on health care spending Down syndrome Recently a tweet containing a video from a Dutch tv-show about Down syndrome caused a lot of turmoil on Twitter.
Temporary dermal fillers prove harmless RIVM has conducted a market surveillance study of 26 so-called non-permanent fillers. All 26 products proved to be harmless.