News | RIVM

Safe recycling of textiles possible, but still in its infancy

Textiles are produced using chemicals. Although many hazardous chemicals may no longer be used in textile production, they may still be present in donations of old clothing. RIVM has conducted a study into the safety of recycled textiles.

Provisional figures on participation in the National Immunisation Programme

According to RIVM’s registration system, at least 90% of babies have been vaccinated against mumps, measles and rubella (MMR).

National Immunisation Programme: new decline in number of reported cases of disease in 2021

In 2021, fewer people contracted diseases for which vaccines are offered under the National Immunisation Programme (NIP) than before the coronavirus pandemic. This is very likely largely due to the impact of the coronavirus measures, such as social distancing and hand washing.

Sustained avian flu outbreak is the most remarkable outbreak in 2021 discussed in Zoonoses Report

The outbreak of the H5N1 variant of avian flu was the most remarkable outbreak in 2021. In October of that year, the Netherlands experienced the start of the biggest outbreak of avian flu since 2003.

Patient with cutaneous diphtheria in reception centre

This week, a refugee from Syria was found to be infected with the diphtheria bacterium. The patient has been treated with antibiotics. The patient’s contacts have been tested and vaccinated.

RIVM formulates criteria for R&D of sustainable pharmaceuticals

As part of an international research project, RIVM has formulated criteria for R&D of sustainable new pharmaceuticals. These GREENER criteria are an important first step to develop pharmaceuticals that do not impact the environment..

Side effect reports National Immunisation Programme 2021

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

Participation in National Immunisation Programme shows slight decrease

Participation in the National Immunisation Programme has fallen slightly, showing a decrease of 1 to 2 percentage points.

RIVM calls for increased involvement of scientific community in solving plastic crisis

Industry and policymakers are not availing themselves enough of the available scientific knowledge when it comes to smarter ways of dealing with plastics.

Impact of coronavirus outbreak on participation in National Immunisation Programme limited

Participation in the vaccinations against mumps, measles and rubella (MMR) and diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus and polio) (DTaP-IPV) has decreased slightly among infants (-1%).