In 2017, the Health Council indicated that drops of vitamin K do not protect some children enough. It concerns children who are breastfed and who have a disturbed fat absorption. At birth it is not possible to see which children this is the case.
International research shows that administration via a shot works better for them.
In 2020, the RIVM National Institute for Public Health and the Environment investigated the support for changes in the administration of vitamin K for all infants and its feasibility and costs. The Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport and the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport subsequently consulted with (professional) organizations involved in the implementation of this policy. This consultation showed that these organizations all support the change of the current policy.
At the request of VWS, RIVM has drawn up a plan, together with care professionals from birth care and interest groups of parents. It states what is needed to change the dosage form.
The plan is necessary because the administration via injection has consequences for various processes in birth care and for healthcare professionals, parents and children involved. Partly as a result of this plan, VWS has now decided to follow the advice of the Health Council and opt for a new policy for all infants. The basic principle is one shot with vitamin K shortly after birth, unless parents do not want this. Then their baby gets the vitamin by mouth and three doses are needed.
RIVM supports the preparations by and coordination between (professional) organizations. National information material is also being developed for (future) parents.
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