A patient in the Netherlands was diagnosed with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Tests confirmed this today. The patient, who visited the Lombardy region in Italy recently, is being kept in isolation. The Municipal Health Service (GGD) carries out a contact investigation.

The novel coronavirus is transmitted by little droplets, for example when someone coughs or sneezes. To prevent the virus from being spread, the GGD and RIVM National Institute for Public Health and the Environment are checking with whom the patient has been in contact during the infectious period. These people must monitor their health, check their temperature twice a day and they must report this to the GGD. These measures reduce the chance of the virus spreading in the Netherlands.

RIVM remains alert for any possible new infections. If any are found, the same protocol is put into action: isolate, contact investigation and monitoring of the patient.

Symptoms of COVID-19 are a fever with respiratory problems (coughing or shortness of breath). Persons who have visited an area where COVID-19 is widespread (such as China, South-Korea, and some municipalities in Italy) who show these symptoms can be tested for COVID-19, the disease that is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. A doctor can also order the test if someone has been in contact with a known patient with COVID-19.