Wastewater on aircraft from China has not been found to contain any new variants of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 so far. These findings are from several tests performed by RIVM. However, the wastewater was found to contain coronavirus particles.

People who worked from home during the COVID-19 pandemic were more likely to have physical complaints than people working on location (location workers). Examples included upper back pain, lower back pain, and pain in arms, neck and/or shoulders. These findings are from RIVM research.

Today, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) published details of a proposed ban on the production, use, sale and import of some 10,000 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

The Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden and Norway today took the first formal step towards a European ban on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by jointly submitting a restriction proposal to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

RIVM advises government authorities to involve ‘key persons’ in formulating policy for current and future pandemics. Results from RIVM research show that these individuals played a key role in ensuring an ongoing focus on social well-being and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite the limitations.

Infections with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 are continuing to decrease in the Netherlands. This trend is also reflected in hospitals and nursing homes. The coronavirus thermometer is therefore shifting to status 1. The impact of SARS-CoV-2 on society and the healthcare system is currently limited.

The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) advises to reduce PFAS concentrations in the drinking water in parts of the Netherlands in the coming years. This concerns drinking water produced from river water.

The Dutch Safety Board (OVV) has published its report ‘Approach to the COVID-19 crisis - Part 2: September 2020 to July 2021’. The report also includes a recommendation for RIVM. 

The upward trend in COVID-19 figures continues to rise in the Netherlands. The increase is visible in all areas. The number of nursing home residents who tested positive for COVID-19 rose by 23% last week. Hospitals are also admitting more and more people due to COVID-19.

Infections with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 are continuing to increase in the Netherlands. More and more people with COVID-19 are turning up in the test lanes of the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs), in nursing homes and in hospitals.