Strengthening Infectious Disease Control and Pandemic Preparedness in The Netherlands

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic showed the importance of a strong public health system. During the pandemic, infectious disease control departments of Dutch Regional Public Health Services (RPHSs) reached their limits. In preparation for new large outbreaks and pandemics, investments must be made in strengthening infectious disease control departments at RPHSs. In March-May 2022, the 25 RPHSs established a programme to reinforce their infectious disease control departments in 2023-2024. The programme addresses current vulnerabilities and focuses on five pillars: increasing staff capacity (1), i... Mehr ...