News | RIVM

Coronavirus measures: public support remains high, despite concerns

With the rapid increase in infections, people estimate their own risk of becoming infected as higher than it was 6 weeks ago (previously 10%, now 18%).

More people getting tested if they have symptoms, staying home remains difficult

Since the recent resurgence of the novel coronavirus, more people perceive the virus as threatening. At the same time, support for the measures has increased and people are following the behavioural recommendations more closely.

Gap between intention and behaviour in staying home and testing for COVID-19

The Dutch policy of staying home and getting tested if you have corona-related symptoms can count on support from the majority of the over 50,000 participants in RIVM’s behavioural study.

Many people willing to isolate at home in case of positive COVID-19 test

The sense of threatening danger from the novel coronavirus is declining. People are feeling less anxious and despondent than in the initial phase of the coronavirus pandemic.

Staying 1.5 metres apart is growing more difficult

Staying 1.5 metres apart seems to be more and more difficult for people to manage.

The 1.5-metre society is difficult to maintain

Personal hygiene measures, such as not shaking hands, or using paper tissues, are not considered a problem by most Dutch people.

Graphit rain poses health risk

An assessment of potential health risks shows that graphite rain contains heavy metals and PAHs.

Rubber granulate on synthetic turf fields causes environmental impact

Use of rubber granulate sourced from car tyres, on synthetic turf fields can be harmful to the environment in the close vicinity of these fields.

Scientific background information on rubber granulate now available in English

In December 2016, RIVM published in Dutch the results of its research into the health risks of playing sports on synthetic turf pitches with rubber granulate.

Playing sports on synthetic turf fields with rubber granulate is safe

New research by the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) shows it is safe for people to play sports on synthetic turf fields with an infill of rubber granulate.