The weekly report from the RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and Environment) reveals that, since the update last week, another 2.588 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 55.955.

Coronavirus situation in the Netherlands

Of the 55.955 people infected, another six people have died since last Tuesday*, July 28, bringing the death toll to 6.150. In total, 11.959 (+44) patients have been admitted to hospital. As not all people are getting tested, the true number of people infected with the new coronavirus is higher than reported. 

*There may be a delay between the day of death and the day that it is reported.

**Not all the patients reported tested positive, were hospitalised, or died in the past week. Some figures are only reported much later. The data from previous weeks is therefore supplemented to include them. 

Mandatory face masks in Amsterdam and Rotterdam

Starting Wednesday, August 5, face masks will be mandatory in certain parts of Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Municipalities have started preparations for the new rule by hanging up posters in the affected areas. In Amsterdam, anyone not wearing a face mask in the designated areas will receive a 95-euro fine. 

The rule was implemented in the Dutch cities in an effort to limit the spread of the virus, as infection rates are yet again on the rise up and down the country. The number coronavirus patients being admitted to hospital is also rising again, with 27 intensive care (IC) patients in Dutch hospitals reported on Tuesday, August 3 - the highest number of IC patients since July 1.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte and Health Minister Hugo de Jonge have announced they will hold a press conference on Thursday, August 6, to discuss rising coronavirus infections. 

Register for a coronavirus test

If you are experiencing coronavirus symptoms, you can get tested to see if you are infected with the virus. You can call 0800 1202 to make an appointment if you have one or more of the following mild symptoms (have your BSN at the ready):

• Stuffy and / or runny nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Coughing
• Fever
• Sudden loss of smell or taste

Contact a doctor if you have severe symptoms or if you belong to an at-risk group.