The RIVM has determined, based on scientific research, to vaccinate the groups that have a greater chance of becoming seriously ill, being admitted to hospital and dying from COVID-19. These are people aged 60 and over and younger people with underlying diseases, who also receive the invitation for the annual flu shot. These are people with a heart or lung condition, diabetes, kidney disease or other condition that reduces their immune system.
In people with post-COVID-19 infection, a disrupted immune response likely plays a role, but there is currently insufficient evidence that they are more likely to experience a more severe course of the acute illness (i.e., a higher risk of hospitalization, ICU admission, or death) upon reinfection. Therefore, post-COVID-19 infection is not an indication for vaccination. An exception to this is the group of people who have demonstrated lung damage (as assessed by CT scan and/or lung function) following a previous COVID-19 infection. This also includes people who developed asthma after their previous COVID-19 infection. These two groups are also being invited for influenza vaccinations by the Municipal Health Service (GGD).
