Ministers meet to discuss corona crisis; cautious optimism on infection rates
Dutch NewsDutch ministers are meeting again on Tuesday morning to discuss the latest developments in the coronavirus crisis, but insiders do not expect any major new measures. Despite some pressure on ministers to state they will start to wind down the ‘intelligent lockdown’ after the May school holidays, officials say it is still far too early to present any form of exit strategy. ‘But I am worried that the numbers could easily mount again to 50 or 80.’ Peak However the peak in IC admissions is expected towards the end of this month and any relaxation in the rules will lead to a new peak, Gommers warns. Health economist Xander Koolman told current affairs programme Nieuwsuur that there are three options open to the government, and that he favours mass testing to trace and isolate everyone with the virus. The RIVM and blood bank Sanquin are carrying out testing for antibodies, Erasmus University teaching hospital has an ongoing research programme for antibodies and Leiden University is testing patients who come to the hospital for non-corona related reasons, broadcaster NOS said.