First coronavirus death in the Netherlands

By Mina Solanki

Coronavirus has taken its first victim in the Netherlands, an 86-year-old man who was admitted to the Ikazia Hospital in Rotterdam. At this moment in time, there are 128 cases of coronavirus in the Netherlands. One is deceased (included in the cases number).

Unknown infection source

The deceased was confirmed with coronavirus last week and was being treated in quarantine at the Ikazia Hospital in Rotterdam. Officials still don’t know how the man contracted coronavirus. His contacts (visitors and caregivers) have been listed and the hospital and Municipal Health Service (GGD) are assessing whether or not they have symptoms.

The number of people infected with coronavirus has shot up this last week. According to health officials, the sharp increase may be due to a “catch up effect”, as people who realise or believe they have the virus come forward.

How is the virus spread?

Coronavirus is spread via particles that are released when one coughs and sneezes. Symptoms include a fever and respiratory complaints like coughing or shortness of breath. Other symptoms could also be muscle pain, a headache, sore throat or confusion. If you have been in a high-risk area and develop symptoms of the virus, you should stay at home and contact your GP.

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Mina Solanki
Completed her Master's degree at the University of Groningen and worked as a translator before joining IamExpat. She loves to read and has a particular interest in Greek mythology. In addition to this, she is an avid rower.Read more

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