Flu Season in the Netherlands: Current Status and Trends
The Netherlands is currently experiencing flu activity, with indications that the peak of the epidemic may have passed, though infections remain present. Recent data from public health organizations provides insights into the progression of the flu season and the prevalence of respiratory viruses.
Flu Activity Trends
The annual flu epidemic in the Netherlands appeared to be starting in early February 2026, a slightly later onset compared to the previous year. Initially, an epidemic was observed at the conclude of January, which subsided by the end of March. As of March 4, 2026, the Dutch Public Health Institute (RIVM) reported that the flu epidemic was likely past its peak Nltimes.nl.
Monitoring Flu Activity
The methods for tracking flu activity have recently evolved. The Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (Nivel) has shifted its focus from monitoring GP visits specifically for flu-like complaints to tracking acute respiratory complaints, of which flu is a component. Monitoring involves examining samples from patients presenting to GPs.
Recent Infection Rates
In the last week of February 2026, 66 people per 100,000 in the Netherlands consulted their GP for flu symptoms Nltimes.nl. Earlier in February, the number of people contacting GPs with flu-like symptoms rose to 51 per 100,000 inhabitants, exceeding the threshold for increased flu activity, which is 46 per 100,000 RIVM. Prior to that, the rate was 40 per 100,000.
Viral Analysis
Analysis of samples indicates a rise in influenza infections. In nose and throat samples from participants in the Infection Radar survey, the flu virus was detected in 13% of samples in the last week of February, up from 12% the previous week RIVM. GPs monitoring stations also found the flu virus in 37% of samples taken from patients with respiratory symptoms RIVM. Laboratories across the Netherlands reported an increase in the percentage of samples containing the flu virus, rising from 18% to 22% in the same period RIVM.
Other Respiratory Viruses
It’s essential to note that other viruses besides influenza can cause respiratory symptoms, including nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing and sore throat. Fever may also occur RIVM.