Rijksvaccinatieprogramma

Rijksvaccinatieprogramma, often referred to as the National Immunization Programme, is the Dutch government program that provides free vaccination to children against a defined set of infectious diseases. The program aims to protect the health of individuals and to prevent outbreaks through high vaccination coverage and herd immunity. It is coordinated by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), in partnership with the municipal public health services (GGD) and the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS). Vaccines are administered by GGD locations, community health centers, and participating general practitioners, and vaccination data are recorded in the Praeventis national immunization register and accessible to health professionals and, with consent, to individuals.

The curriculum includes vaccines against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b, pneumococcus, meningococcus C, measles, mumps and rubella, and, for preteens, human papillomavirus vaccination, among others. The schedule is reviewed and updated as new vaccines become available or evidence changes, and implementation is guided by RIVM recommendations. Vaccination within the program is voluntary and provided at no personal cost to families; parental consent or child assent is required, depending on age.

Coverage levels for most vaccines in the program are high, contributing to low incidences of the targeted diseases. Praeventis enables monitoring of vaccine uptake and helps ensure timely administration. The Rijksvaccinatieprogramma has evolved since its postwar origins, integrating new vaccines and adjusting schedules to reflect epidemiological needs and public health goals.