News | RIVM

Smokers inhale more tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide when measured with WHO method

RIVM has measured the amount of tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide (TNCO) in all filter cigarettes sold in the Netherlands with the WHO Intense method.

Darker cigarettes and other measures to make cigarettes less appealing

There are a number of measures that can be implemented to make cigarettes less appealing and less addictive. For example, manufacturers could make cigarettes a darker colour. They could also stop using ingredients like sugars and flavourings.

Grey heron infected with West Nile virus

A grey heron in the Noord-Holland-Noord region has tested positive for the West Nile virus. The virus is rare in the Netherlands.

Bas van de Meulengraaf

National Heatwave Plan no longer in operation as of 17 August 2022

As of Wednesday, 17 August 2022, the National Heatwave Plan is no longer in operation. Although the period of persistent heat is over, temperatures will remain high over the coming days.

National Heatwave Plan to be activated on 10 August

After consulting the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI), RIVM has decided to activate the National Heatwave Plan in all Dutch provinces as of 10 August 2022.

National Heatwave Plan no longer in effect, smog alert withdrawn

As of Thursday, 21 July 2022, the National Heatwave Plan is no longer in effect.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

Smog alert in the Netherlands Tuesday 19 July

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

National Heatwave Plan active as of 18 July and smog warning throughout the Netherlands

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.

Menthol facilitates inhalation of tobacco smoke, even when you cannot taste it

Even when menthol cannot be tasted, the substance makes it easier to inhale tobacco smoke. This way, menthol makes smoking more attractive for young and novice smokers who are not yet used to inhaling sharp, pungent tobacco smoke.

Higher mortality during heatwave in July in the Netherlands

During the last heatwave, almost 400 more deaths were reported than was expected on overage for that period. The additional deaths mainly concerned persons aged 75 years and older.