RIVM has, for the first time, investigated the possibility of detecting radioactive substances in sewage. This appears to be the case, as RIVM has found iodine-131 and lutetium-177. Hospitals use these substances in the treatment of patients.

Ticks are active again, as shown by the increase in tick bite reports on Tekenradar.nl. Quick action is important: the faster you remove a tick after it bites you, the lower your risk of contracting Lyme disease.

Nitrate leaching on ‘derogation farms’ has risen in recent years, most likely due to the drought experienced throughout the Netherlands in 2018 and regionally in both 2019 and 2020.

More than 16,000 cases of monkeypox have now been confirmed worldwide, spread across 75 countries. Both the number of confirmed cases and the number of countries where the disease is present are continuing to rise

Last year, the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb received 1,462 reports of possible side effects from vaccines administered under the National Immunisation Programme. As was the case in previous years, no new, disconcerting side effects have

The location of wind farms is a frequent topic of public debate. Some people are concerned about the health implications of having wind turbines placed in the vicinity of their homes.

As of Thursday, 21 July 2022, the National Heatwave Plan is no longer in effect. RIVM also withdraws the smog alert. 

Just as in recent days, today 19 July there is a risk of smog across the Netherlands due to high ozone concentrations.

It is warm and the heat will continue over the coming days. For many people, this means enjoying the beach or garden. For others, heat can be less enjoyable.

Some vulnerable groups in society have been hit harder by the COVID-19 pandemic than less vulnerable groups. These include young people (up to 24 years) who have physical or mental problems or come from low-income families.