Netherlands Launches Targeted Vaccination Campaign Against Measles, HPV in South Limburg

Group vaccinations for the National Immunisation Programme (RVP) are set to begin in South Limburg on March 10th, offering free vaccinations against mumps, measles, and rubella (MMR), meningococcal disease, and human papillomavirus (HPV) to eligible children and young people. Invitations are being sent out by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM).

Rising Measles Cases Prompt Action

The vaccination campaign is a direct response to the increasing incidence of measles in the Netherlands, particularly in South Limburg, where vaccination rates are currently below the 95% threshold needed to achieve herd immunity and prevent widespread outbreaks. According to recent reports, the current MMR vaccination rate in South Limburg stands at 87.7% RIVM.

HPV Vaccination Rates Demonstrate Positive Trend

While measles vaccination rates require improvement, there’s encouraging progress with HPV vaccination. In 2024, vaccination rates among girls increased from 51.0% to 59.8%, and among boys from 43.8% to 57.2%. This indicates a growing awareness and acceptance of HPV vaccination, although rates remain lower compared to other RVP vaccinations.

Importance of Vaccination

Vaccinations are crucial for protecting children and young people from infectious diseases that can lead to serious health complications. The free vaccinations offered through this campaign contribute to both individual protection and the collective immunity of the community. Group vaccinations provide a convenient opportunity to receive protection or complete a vaccination series.

Where to Find More Information and Support

The GGD Zuid-Limburg emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making regarding vaccination. Parents and young people with questions or concerns are encouraged to visit the GGD website or contact Youth Health Care at 088 – 880 50 44 or [email protected].

Campaign Details

The group vaccinations will take place from March 10th to April 1st in the Western Mijnstreek, Parkstad, and Maastricht-Oost and Maastricht-West areas. Specific dates, times, and locations will be detailed in the invitation letter sent by the RIVM. Further information and frequently asked questions are available at ggdzl.nl/groepsvaccinaties.

About the National Immunisation Programme

The Netherlands has a comprehensive National Immunisation Programme (RVP) designed to protect children against a range of potentially life-threatening infectious diseases, including diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b, pneumococcal disease, hepatitis B, mumps, measles, rubella, meningococcal disease, and human papillomavirus RIVM. The programme is free of charge, and while not compulsory, enjoys a high participation rate of over 95%.

Infants receive their first vaccinations at three months old, when their immune systems are capable of mounting a strong response. Completing the vaccination schedule is essential for ensuring adequate protection.