The Netherlands is facing a concerning trend as vaccination rates among children under the age of five have slightly decreased, falling short of the crucial 90% threshold, according to the RIVM, the national public health institute. This decline raises alarms about potential outbreaks of preventable diseases, prompting calls for immediate government intervention and increased funding for vaccination programs.

Groups with the lowest vaccination rates include children from large families, particularly those of orthodox Protestant background, those not attending daycare, and children with Moroccan and Turkish heritage, according to the RIVM. These disparities highlight the need for targeted campaigns to address specific concerns and barriers within these communities.

Regional health board umbrella group GGD GHOR is urging the government to provide additional funding to combat infectious diseases, emphasizing the real risk of serious illness in children. Director Ton Coenen pointed to recent outbreaks of whooping cough and measles clusters as evidence of the urgent need for investment.

In The Hague, the BMR vaccine uptake rate for babies has dropped to just under 81%, although it has slightly increased among school-age children due to a targeted campaign. City health chief Hilbert Bredemeijer stressed the council’s efforts but emphasized the necessity of long-term support from the national government.

Despite the overall decline, there has been a positive increase in vaccinations against HPV, which can prevent cervical cancer. This rise is attributed to a targeted awareness campaign by the RIVM.

The children’s vaccination program in the Netherlands covers 13 infectious diseases. The current situation underscores the importance of sustained efforts to maintain high vaccination rates and protect vulnerable populations from preventable illnesses.