The Netherlands is currently experiencing a widespread influenza epidemic, with increasing numbers of individuals seeking medical attention for flu-like symptoms. As of , the country has officially met the epidemic threshold, defined as 46 cases per 100,000 people, with 68 cases reported per 100,000 in the most recent week. This represents an increase from 62 cases per 100,000 the previous week, according to data from the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM).
The surge in cases is placing a significant strain on the Dutch healthcare system, leading to disruptions in hospital operations. Several hospitals across the country, including Frisius MC in Leeuwarden and Heerenveen, Meander Medisch Centrum in Amersfoort, Albert Schweitzer Ziekenhuis in Dordrecht, and Martini Ziekenhuis in Groningen, have been forced to postpone non-urgent surgeries to prioritize the care of acutely ill patients. Remko Seinstra, manager of acute care at Frisius MC, described the situation as “really busy” in the hospital, indicating a substantial impact from the epidemic.
The pressures extend beyond bed capacity. Hospitals are also grappling with illness among their own staff and difficulties discharging patients to long-term care facilities, which are similarly facing staffing shortages. This creates a bottleneck, limiting the availability of beds and forcing difficult triage decisions. The combination of increased patient volume and limited resources is creating a challenging environment for healthcare providers.
The current flu season began a fortnight later than the previous year, with the 2025 epidemic peaking at the start of February with 118 cases per 100,000 people. While the RIVM currently indicates that the healthcare system is not likely to be overwhelmed nationally, the localized pressures are substantial and require proactive management.
The Dutch government is monitoring the situation closely. Demissionair minister Bruijn of Volksgezondheid recently urged individuals experiencing cold-like symptoms to avoid participating in carnival celebrations, stating, “If you are sick, do not go huddling on the streets, because you will make everyone around you sick.” The impact of this advice on transmission rates remains to be seen.
Despite the circulating viruses differing somewhat from those included in this season’s influenza vaccine, the RIVM maintains that the vaccine remains effective. Data from studies in the United Kingdom and preliminary results from European research suggest the vaccine is performing at a comparable level to previous years. Approximately 55% of individuals over the age of 60 and those with vulnerable health issues have received the influenza vaccination.
Hospitals are implementing measures to contain the spread of the virus within their facilities, such as consolidating patients with influenza onto the same wards. However, the situation highlights the fragility of the healthcare system and the importance of preventative measures, such as vaccination and staying home when ill. The challenges extend to the emergency room, where staff are prioritizing patients based on the urgency of their condition, and implementing waiting areas for those with less critical needs.
The current epidemic underscores the interconnectedness of healthcare components. The inability to transfer patients to long-term care facilities due to staffing shortages within those facilities exacerbates the pressure on hospitals. This systemic issue requires a coordinated approach to address capacity constraints and ensure continuity of care.
While the number of reported cases is currently slightly lower than at the same point last year, the healthcare system is facing significant challenges. The situation is being closely monitored, and hospitals are adapting their strategies to manage the influx of patients and maintain essential services. Individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms are advised to stay home and contact their general practitioner for guidance.
