Group immunity

The Dutch government has relied on the advice of its experts in determining the appropriate measures whilst the world waits for a vaccine. The experts at the National Institute for Public Health and Environment say that we can stall and simultaneously control the spread of the virus by building group immunity.

Flattening the curve

Those who have had the virus typically become immune – similarly to the measles. If more and more people become immune then it will become less likely that elderly people and people with poor health contract the virus. The Dutch government has therefore opted for the following strategy: control the pace at which the virus spreads, so that vulnerable groups are protected, hospitals do not become overloaded, and strong groups (like young people) build immunity. This strategy is commonly referred to as flattening the curve.

No complete lockdown

Experts warn that a complete lockdown will lead to positive short-term results like easing the pressure on hospitals. However, they also warn that a complete lockdown can be disastrous in the long-term, as it can result in a sudden overflow of corona patients that society cannot handle. Therefore, the only groups of people that are advised to not leave their houses or come in contact with other people are the elderly and the people with poor health.

Dutch strategy

 Please visit the website of the National Institute for Public Health and Environment for more information on the Dutch strategy.