Coronavirus vaccination in the Netherlands

Repeat vaccination keeps you well-protected against serious illness and hospital admission.

The autumn 2023 coronavirus vaccination campaign has now ended. But vaccination is still possible for pregnant women and people in medically high-risk groups with a referral from their doctor. They can make an appointment by phone. 

Who is eligible for coronavirus vaccination?

People in the following groups can get vaccinated against coronavirus: 

  • Pregnant women (see leaflet Information about the coronavirus vaccine for pregnant women);
  • Adults and children in medically high-risk groups, on the advice of their doctor (for instance, people with an immune system disorder);
  • People with a referral from their doctor for another reason than mentioned above.

Making a vaccination appointment

If you are eligible for coronavirus vaccination, you can make an appointment by phone. Call 0800 7070

If you want to be vaccinated with the updated Novavax vaccine, you can call 0800 0174. This vaccine is available at a limited number of GGD locations. 

Coronavirus vaccination reduces risk of illness and death

Coronaviruses are still circulating and there may be a spike in infections. So it is important for people with a higher risk of severe COVID-19 to get vaccinated. A new dose keeps them well-protected and reduces their risk of hospital admission and/or death due to COVID-19.

Coronavirus vaccine

Vaccination is done using the BioNtech/Pfizer Omicron XBB 1.5 mRNA vaccine. It gives the best available protection against the Omicron XBB coronavirus variants that are currently circulating. People who cannot or do not wish to be vaccinated with an mRNA vaccine can opt for the Novavax protein-based vaccine. Novavax has adapted the vaccine to protect against XBB variants. 

Repeat vaccination not necessary for everyone

It is not necessary for everyone in the Netherlands to be vaccinated again. A large part of the population has already developed broad immunity against the virus, due to previous vaccinations and infections. The Omicron variant also makes people less ill.

Help prevent coronavirus transmission

In winter there is more circulation of the viruses that cause colds, flu and COVID. They can make some people very ill. People with underlying health issues and older people have a higher risk of becoming severely ill from coronavirus or the flu. But a viral infection can also cause prolonged symptoms in people without underlying health issues. This is the case with post-COVID-19 syndrome (long COVID), for example.

So it’s important for everyone to follow the advice for preventing respiratory infections. This helps protect everyone, including people with health issues.  

Coughing, sneezing, a sore throat and a stuffy or runny nose are signs of respiratory infection. 

  • Stay at home if you are ill. 
  • If your symptoms are mild, ask your manager if you can work from home. 
  • If you have symptoms, avoid physical contact with people who could become seriously ill from a cold or flu virus. Wear a face mask if physical contact is necessary, for example, when providing care. 
  • Cough and sneeze into your elbow, and wash your hands thoroughly and regularly (you should always do this, even if you are in good health).
  • Ventilate indoor spaces well.

Getting vaccinated against coronavirus is not mandatory. It is your own decision.