Government takes stock of measures to combat spread of coronavirus

Please note: this news item was published on 1 September. Read more about the current approach to tackling coronavirus in the Netherlands.

Today, prime minister Mark Rutte and health minister Hugo de Jonge held a press conference to update the public on the coronavirus pandemic. First, they looked at the current situation, approximately 6 months on from the first confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Netherlands. They then reviewed the measures to prevent a second wave of infections.

No easing of measures at present

As well as giving a general overview of the situation, the ministers set out a number of specific points in more detail. One of these is the decision to keep nightclubs and similar venues closed for the time being.

Ban remains on group singing, chanting and shouting

In addition, the ban on group singing, chanting and shouting at gatherings such as protests, sporting events and concerts, will remain unchanged.

Travel quarantine exemption for all children under 13

Children aged 4 to 12 whose families are self-quarantining are, in certain situations, allowed to attend school, sport clubs and out-of-school care. This is, for example, the case for families who have returned from a region for which an orange travel advisory has been issued as a result of COVID-19. Today, it was decided that children aged from 0 to 3 will also be allowed to go to childcare and sport clubs in this situation. 

Changes to care home measures

Steps will be taken to ensure care home staff are better prepared to deal with potential outbreaks. This will include them receiving training on how to spot symptoms and implement isolation, as well as extra personal protective equipment. Furthermore, research is being carried out to determine whether residents and staff might undergo preventive testing if infection rates in the immediate vicinity increase. In the event of an outbreak in a care home, all residents and staff will be tested weekly.

Expansion of coronavirus dashboard

Finally, the coronavirus dashboard is continually being expanded and developed. As of 1 September 2020, the dashboard provides figures at municipality level, making it easier to introduce more targeted measures where necessary.