Major Changes to Childhood Vaccination Schedule Starting in 2025
Starting in 2025, the childhood vaccination schedule in the Netherlands will undergo notable updates. These changes, based on research by the Health Council, aim to provide children with even better protection against infectious diseases by adjusting the timing of key vaccinations. Parents were informed of these updates in a letter from the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) in September 2024.
What’s Changing in the Vaccination Schedule?
The updated schedule introduces several key adjustments to the timing of vaccinations,ensuring children are protected earlier and for longer durations. Here’s a breakdown of the changes:
- DKTP-Hib-HepB and Pneumococcus Vaccines: Children will now receive these injections at around 12 months instead of 11 months. This includes protection against diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, polio, haemophilus influenzae type b, hepatitis B, and pneumococcus.
- MMR Vaccine: The second dose of the mumps, measles, and rubella (MMR) vaccine will be administered at 3 years old instead of 9 years.This change is particularly significant for measles protection, which has seen a resurgence in recent years.
- DPT Vaccine: The diphtheria, whooping cough, and tetanus (DPT) vaccine will now be given at 5 years old, replacing the previous schedule of 3 years and 9 months. This adjustment ensures longer-lasting protection, especially against whooping cough.
- DTP Vaccine: The diphtheria,tetanus,and polio (DTP) vaccine will be administered at 14 years old instead of 9 years,extending protection into adolescence.
These changes are designed to align vaccination schedules with the latest scientific evidence, ensuring children are better shielded from preventable diseases.
Why These Changes Matter
The adjustments reflect a growing understanding of how timing impacts vaccine efficacy. For instance, moving the second MMR dose to 3 years old ensures children are protected during a critical window when they are most vulnerable to measles. Similarly, delaying the DTP vaccine to 14 years old provides extended immunity during a period when adolescents may be at higher risk of exposure.
Parents can rest assured that these updates are backed by rigorous research. As the RIVM stated in their letter, “Children are even better protected if they receive some vaccinations at a different age.”
Key Changes at a Glance
| Vaccine | Previous age | New Age (2025) | Key Benefit |
|—————————|——————|——————–|————————————————–|
| DKTP-Hib-HepB & Pneumococcus | 11 months | 12 months | Enhanced early protection |
| MMR (Second dose) | 9 years | 3 years | Better measles protection |
| DPT | 3 years,9 months| 5 years | Longer-lasting whooping cough immunity |
| DTP | 9 years | 14 years | extended protection into adolescence |
What parents Need to Know
Parents should be aware of these changes and consult their healthcare providers to ensure their children’s vaccination records are up to date. The RIVM has made it easy to stay informed, with detailed resources available on their official website.
For those looking to stay updated on the latest health news,consider signing up for the 112 news newsletter, which provides timely updates on vaccination schedules and other critical health topics.
final Thoughts
The 2025 vaccination schedule changes mark a significant step forward in public health. By adjusting the timing of key vaccines, the Netherlands is ensuring that children are better protected against preventable diseases. As always, staying informed and proactive is the best way to safeguard your family’s health.
For more details on the updated schedule, visit the RIVM website or consult your local healthcare provider.
