News | RIVM

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.

RIVM: seven e-cigarette flavourings with tobacco-taste pose health risk

The Dutch government only wants to allow 23 e-cigarette flavourings with a tobacco-taste. RIVM examined whether these 23 flavourings are harmful to people’s health.

Awareness and use of cigarillos, heated tobacco and nicotine pouches relatively low

The awareness and use of cigarillos, heated tobacco and nicotine pouches is relatively low. This is apparent from research by RIVM among Dutch people aged 13 and older, commissioned by the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport.

RIVM recommends limiting number of e-cigarettes flavourings to 23 with tobacco taste only

The government wishes to make e-cigarettes less attractive, in particular for young people.

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.

How to distinguish a dual user from an exclusive e-cigarette user

RIVM and Maastricht University have identified a combination of factors that can be used to distinguish between exclusive e-cigarette users (vapers) on the one hand and people who smoke both regula

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.

National Heat Plan no longer in effect as of July 29th

As of Monday, 29 July, the National Heat Plan is no longer in effect. The Heat Plan had been active from July 23rd until July 28th. Never before has it been as hot as last week in the Netherlands.

National Heat Plan active throughout the Netherlands

It is forecasted to be exceptionally hot over the coming days. Temperatures will rise to tropical levels. This can lead to problems for people with vulnerable health.