2023-12-16 21:54:00
The Covid-19 virus is on the rise once again, with more than 900 people currently hospitalized and fifty in intensive care in the Netherlands. According to Chantal Rovers, professor of infectious disease outbreaks at Radboud university medical center in Nijmegen, the vulnerable population, mainly the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, remain at risk despite many others building resistance through previous infection or vaccination.
Rovers also warned that even young and healthy individuals who have had Covid-19 twice are not immune to post-covid syndrome. With Christmas approaching, she advises against attending gatherings or visiting elderly relatives if experiencing symptoms, and encourages individuals to consider getting tested for Covid-19.
The demand for self-tests has increased with the rising number of cases, with drugstores witnessing a surge in sales. Professor Rovers expects an increase in infections following Christmas gatherings, potentially leading to more hospital admissions in January.
Outgoing Minister Ernst Kuipers of Public Health, while acknowledging the high numbers, expressed confidence in the country’s healthcare system and vaccination efforts. He also stressed the importance of vaccination and urged more people to get vaccinated.
Despite the lifting of strict measures, Harald Wychgel of the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment emphasized that Covid-19 is not to be taken lightly. He warned that the virus can still cause serious illness and long-term complications.
While the government no longer provides specific advice on preventing Covid-19, general measures such as frequent handwashing, staying home if sick, working from home if possible, and maintaining distance from others are still recommended to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.
With the vaccination program ongoing, Kuipers revealed that just under half of vulnerable individuals and those aged 60 or older have been vaccinated. He encouraged more people to get vaccinated and emphasized the importance of not underestimating the seriousness of Covid-19.
Source: National government]
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