First wave of COVID-19 had major impact on regular healthcare and health During the first wave, the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) had a major impact on healthcare in the Netherlands. Many patients faced delays in appointments and treatments.
Major increase in hospital admissions and ICU admissions due to COVID-19 The increase in the reported number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 in the last two weeks was followed last week by an increase in the number of hospital and ICU admissions.
Increase in newly reported COVID-19 infections is cause for concern 27% more new COVID-19 infections were reported last week than in the week before that.
Possible start of COVID-19 vaccination in early January If all goes well, the first people in the Netherlands will be vaccinated against COVID-19 in early January. The logistics operation aims to start vaccination in the week of 4 January 2021.
Only minor decrease in number of newly reported COVID-19 infections Last week there was a slight decrease in the number of newly reported COVID-19 infections: 33,949 newly reported infections in the past week compared to 36,931 newly reported infections in the week
COVID-19 consequences impact vulnerable groups more in the long term The effects of the corona crisis have a greater impact on vulnerable groups in society, such as lower-educated adults, young people, the elderly and people with underlying health problems.
Compliance with coronavirus measures has improved Autumn 2020 saw a strong surge in the number of people who tested positive for COVID-19.
Citizen science network produces accurate maps of fine air particles Measurements by thousands of citizen scientists in the Netherlands using their smartphones and the iSPEX add-on are delivering accurate data on fine air particles in the atmosphere that add valuabl
Sustainability of EU regulatory system on medicinal products In safeguarding the quality, safety and efficacy of medicinal products, the present EU regulatory system has become a time consuming and highly regulated process.