REGIO – GGD Gelderland-South expects an increase in the number of infectious (notifiable) diseases next winter. This is what the GGD writes in the recently published “Framework Letter 2024”.
In the years 2021 and 2022, the number of infectious diseases decreased. This was largely caused by the crown measurements. These not only had an effect on corona transmission, but other infectious diseases were also less likely to be passed on to other people.
Fifty Notifiable Infectious Diseases
Now that crown measures (such as mouth plugs and distance maintenance) no longer apply, the GGD predicts that infectious diseases will rise again almost across the board in Nijmegen and surrounding municipalities. There are about 50 notifiable diseases, such as ancient tuberculosis, polio, hepatitis and botulism. More recently, these include covid-19, SARS, and monkeypox.
It is impossible to predict to what extent infectious diseases will increase. For example, WHO, the World Health Organization, has reported that the number of measles cases is on the rise worldwide. Our country has fairly good vaccination coverage, but the Netherlands is also at risk in this regard, according to the GGD.
The flu shot remains with the doctor for now
Secretary of State Van Ooijen made the decision in principle last summer to organize a public vaccination facility for adults at the GGDs. “This vaccination facility is an important step towards an agile and future-proof vaccination system for all adult vaccinations. This change in the vaccination system will be implemented in stages,” reports GGD Gelderland-Zuid.
For influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations (which are now offered by general practitioners), it will be considered which party this vaccination will suit best in the future. For the time being, GPs will continue to carry out these vaccinations.
