News | RIVM

BA.5 variant detected in the Netherlands

The BA.5 variant of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 was detected for the first time in the Netherlands this week.

Most reports received by MEBI in 2021 concerned copper IUDs

More reports of suspected adverse effects from copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) were made in 2021 than in previous years, according to the annual report of the Dutch reporting and expertise centre for adverse effects of medical implants (MEBI).

uitgestoken hand van arts met daarin een koperspiraaltje

RIVM recalls fill needles for COVID-19 vaccination at supplier’s request

As of today, RIVM is recalling the fill needles made by MLS/Sol-Millenium Europe as a precaution, following a safety alert from the supplier. This applies to the SOL-M™ Blunt Fill Needle (REF 110022, LOT 05103013).

Bakje met optreknaalden coronavaccinatie

Collaboration necessary to ensure the safe reuse of consumer products

In a circular economy, products, materials and raw materials are continually reused. For example, consumer products like clothes, packaging and toys.

Public opinion: keep society open and continue providing healthcare during COVID-19 surge

In the long-term approach to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dutch government is assigning a key role to civil society and private citizens. When asked what their priorities are in that context, the answer was to prevent delays in surgical interventions.

Age may play a role in the risk of asbestos cancer from short-term exposure

On average it takes roughly 40 years for amphibole asbestos to lead to mesothelioma after inhalation. An individual’s age at the time of exposure therefore affects the probability of their developing cancer (at a later stage).

Number of tuberculosis patients in the Netherlands increased slightly in 2021 compared to 2020

The number of people with tuberculosis (TB) in the Netherlands increased slightly in 2021, reaching 680. This figure is 9% higher than it was in 2020 (622 patients).

Shortcomings in the technical documentation of mesh implants intended to treat pelvic organ prolapse used in the Netherlands

After a detailed assessment of the technical documentation of 9 different mesh implants intended to treat pelvic organ prolapse used in NL (2018) RIVM concludes that the safety and performance of these products were not properly substantiated.

Seasonal flu epidemic in the Netherlands

The flu epidemic in the Netherlands has started. The number of people with flu (influenza) increased significantly in the past two weeks.

Hardly any decrease in overweight, smoking and alcohol use since 2018

In 2021 half of all adults were overweight. 21% sometimes smoked, 7% were excessive drinkers and 8% heavy drinkers.