In 2023, the Netherlands saw a notable increase in the number of people receiving vaccinations through the National Vaccination Program (RVP), compared too 2022. This rise is attributed to the easing of COVID-19 measures, such as social distancing, which had previously hindered vaccination efforts. The RVP surveillance report provides a detailed analysis of thirteen infectious diseases covered by the program, evaluating their severity and the effectiveness of the vaccines. The report tracks hospitalizations and illness rates, comparing them with previous years and international data. It also highlights diseases like the RS virus, for which vaccines exist but are not yet included in the RVP.
One of the most alarming trends in 2023 was the dramatic surge in whooping cough cases, which skyrocketed from 129 in 2022 to 2,894 in 2023. This upward trajectory continued into the first four months of 2024,with the disease predominantly affecting infants under 12 months and teenagers. Measles cases also saw a notable increase, rising from seven in 2022 to 75 in early 2024, especially in the Eindhoven region.
While meningococcal disease cases were higher in 2023 than in 2022, they remained slightly below pre-pandemic levels. Most cases were caused by the type B meningococcal bacterium, which is not covered by the RVP. The program does, however, include vaccinations for types A, C, W, and Y, with cases rising from seven to twelve in 2023.
Significant changes to the National Vaccination Program were implemented in 2024. Babies now receive their first rotavirus vaccine at 6 to 9 weeks, followed by a second dose at three months. Vaccinations for whooping cough and pneumococci have been delayed to 12 months instead of 11. Further adjustments are planned for 2025, aimed at enhancing child protection.
the table below summarizes reported cases of key diseases from 2020 to 2023:
| Disease | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 |
|—————————–|——|——|——|——|
| Whooping cough | 941 | 74 | 129 | 2894 |
| Mumps | 64 | 1 | 7 | 91 |
| Pneumococcal | ~1500| ~1350| ~2200| ~2250|
| Measles | 2 | 0 | 6 | 7 |
| Diphtheria | 3 | 0 | 7 | 14 |
| Tetanus | 2 | 0 | 2 | 5 |
| Meningococci ACWY | 22 | 5 | 7 | 12 |
| Hepatitis B, acute | 95 | 72 | 80 | 90 |
| Hepatitis B, Chronic/Unknown| 714 | 743 | 815 | 858 |
| Haemophilus influenzae type b| 68 | 68 | 57 | 51 |
| Rotavirus | 350 | 882 | 1391 | 959 |
These developments underscore the importance of vaccination in combating infectious diseases and the need for continuous monitoring and adaptation of the National Vaccination Program.
The Rising Importance of Vaccination: Insights from the Netherlands’ National Vaccination Program
Table of Contents
In 2023, the Netherlands witnessed a meaningful increase in vaccinations through the National Vaccination Program, driven by the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. This surge highlights the critical role of immunization in combating infectious diseases. we spoke with Dr. Emma van der Meer, an expert in public health and vaccination strategies, to delve deeper into the latest trends, challenges, and adaptations within the program.
The surge in Vaccination Rates
Editor: Dr.van der Meer, the Netherlands saw a notable rise in vaccinations in 2023. What factors contributed to this increase?
Dr. van der Meer: The easing of COVID-19 measures, such as social distancing, played a pivotal role. During the pandemic, many routine vaccinations were delayed or missed.with restrictions lifted, there was a concerted effort to catch up, notably for children and vulnerable populations. Additionally, public awareness campaigns emphasized the importance of immunization in preventing outbreaks of diseases like whooping cough and measles.
Alarming Trends in infectious Diseases
Editor: The report highlights a dramatic rise in whooping cough cases,especially among infants and teenagers. What’s behind this surge?
Dr. van der meer: Whooping cough, or pertussis, is highly contagious, and immunity wanes over time. The increase in cases is partly due to gaps in vaccination coverage during the pandemic. Teenagers, who may have missed booster shots, and infants, who are too young to be fully vaccinated, are particularly vulnerable. It’s a stark reminder of the need for timely immunization.
Measles Outbreaks and Regional Concerns
Editor: Measles cases also spiked in 2023, particularly in the Eindhoven region. Why is this happening, and what’s being done to address it?
Dr.van der Meer: Measles outbreaks frequently enough occur in communities with lower vaccination rates. In Eindhoven, pockets of unvaccinated individuals have contributed to the spread. Public health teams are working to increase vaccine uptake through targeted outreach and education. Measles is a highly infectious disease, and even small gaps in coverage can led to significant outbreaks.
Meningococcal Disease and Vaccine Coverage
Editor: Meningococcal cases rose in 2023, though they remain below pre-pandemic levels. Can you explain the importance of these trends?
Dr.van der Meer: Most cases are caused by type B meningococcal bacteria, which isn’t covered by the National Vaccination Program.However, the program does include vaccines for types A, C, W, and Y. the increase in cases underscores the need for broader vaccine coverage and continued monitoring of disease patterns.
Adaptations to the National Vaccination Program
Editor: Significant changes were implemented in 2024,including adjustments to the rotavirus and pneumococcal vaccine schedules. What’s the rationale behind these changes?
Dr. van der Meer: The changes are based on the latest scientific evidence and aim to optimize protection. Such as, the rotavirus vaccine is now administered at 6 to 9 weeks, followed by a second dose at three months.This schedule ensures early immunity, which is crucial given the severity of rotavirus infections in infants. Similarly, delaying the whooping cough and pneumococcal vaccines to 12 months aligns with the timing when children are most at risk.
the Importance of Continuous Monitoring
Editor: The report emphasizes the need for ongoing monitoring and adaptation. Why is this so critical?
Dr. van der Meer: Infectious diseases are dynamic, and their patterns can change rapidly. Continuous monitoring allows us to identify emerging threats, assess vaccine effectiveness, and make data-driven adjustments to the program.It’s about staying one step ahead to protect public health.
Conclusion
Editor: Dr.van der Meer, thank you for sharing your insights. To summarize, the Netherlands’ vaccination efforts in 2023 reflect both progress and challenges. The surge in vaccinations is encouraging, but the rise in whooping cough and measles cases highlights the importance of maintaining high coverage rates. adaptations to the National Vaccination Program and continuous monitoring are essential to safeguard public health and prevent future outbreaks.