The RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and Environment) reports that, since the last update, another 292 people in the Netherlands have tested positive for COVID-19, the illness that is caused by the new coronavirus. This means that the new total of infected people is 1705. Of this number, 389 work in the health sector- where tests are carried out more often.

Coronavirus situation in the Netherlands

Of the 1705 people infected, another 19 have died since yesterday, March 16, bringing the death toll to 43. The deceased were between 63 and 94 years old. RIVM previously reported that the youngest to die from the virus was 59- this is false and was due to an administrative error. In total, 314 patients are or have been admitted to hospital.

North Brabant has the highest number of coronavirus infections, namely 634 positive tests. Limburg has the second-highest number of positive tests (197), followed by South-Holland (175).

Social distancing in the Netherlands

Extra measures were announced to curb the spread of the virus. These include the closure of all food and drink establishments, excluding supermarkets, the closure of schools and all fitness clubs and saunas, amongst other things. 

Are you worried about having symptoms? Read Coronavirus: What are the symptoms and how can you avoid getting it?