News | RIVM

Improvement of air quality continues

In 2019, the calculated concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM10) were below the European limit values in almost the whole of the Netherlands. Locally, the limit value for nitrogen dioxide is still being exceeded.

RIVM international circular economy knowledge partner

As of 7 December 2020, RIVM has become a knowledge partner of the international Platform for Accelerating the Circular Economy (PACE).

First COVID-19 vaccination in the Netherlands on 8 January 2021

If the European Medicines Agency (EMA) approves BioNTech/Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine next week, the first people in the Netherlands will receive the COVID-19 vaccine on Friday 8 January 2021.

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 COVID-19 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.