Delta version of coronavirus has limited impact in NL so far

Photo: Brandon Hartley
Photo: Brandon Hartley

The Delta, or Indian, variant of coronavirus is boosting infections in Britain, but the impact on the Netherlands is so far limited, broadcaster NOS said on Tuesday.

So far just 13 cases of the Delta variant have been identified in the Netherlands, but as public health chief Jaap van Dissel told MPs last week, caution is required given this version of the virus is 40% to 50% more infectious than the Alpha, or British type.

RIVM virologist Chantal Reusken told the broadcaster that is not yet clear if the Delta variant is as infectious in the Netherlands. The RIVM runs a detailed analysis on at least 1,500 samples a week and so far the Delta infection rate has remained stable, she said.

The situation, she said, is similar in Denmark and Germany.

One reason for the variant’s dominance in Britain may be explained by that country’s strong ties to India and the extensive travel between the two countries, even after the variant was identified.

It may also be related to Britain’s decision to vaccinate as many people as possible once, before starting on a second round, Reusken said.

The Netherlands recently ended its ban on flights from India and replaced it with mandatory quarantine.

Thank you for donating to DutchNews.nl.

We could not provide the Dutch News service, and keep it free of charge, without the generous support of our readers. Your donations allow us to report on issues you tell us matter, and provide you with a summary of the most important Dutch news each day.

Make a donation