RSV
For some people, getting vaccinated against RSV may be advisable. Whether this applies to you depends on factors such as your age, health, and personal circumstances. During a personal consultation at vaccinatiecentrum.nl, we will discuss whether vaccination is appropriate for you and which form of protection best suits your needs.
What is RSV?
RSV, short for Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a common virus that causes cold-like symptoms. Almost all children are infected with this virus before their second birthday. In most cases, children only develop a cold, but sometimes the virus can also cause serious respiratory infections. The elderly and people with lung problems or other underlying health conditions are also at higher risk of becoming seriously ill.
Symptoms and progression
After becoming infected with RSV, it usually takes two to eight days for symptoms to develop. In most cases, symptoms appear after about five days. Most people experience cold-like symptoms such as a blocked or runny nose, coughing, and a sore throat. If the infection is more severe, other symptoms may also occur:
- Fever or feeling feverish
- Pneumonia
- Shortness of breath
In children, a severe infection can also cause an ear infection and wheezing. For elderly adults, a severe infection may also cause headaches, fatigue, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
How contagious is RSV?
RSV spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can become infected by inhaling these droplets. Virus particles can also get onto your hands and then reach your nose, mouth, or eyes, which can also lead to infection.
A person is often contagious before they develop symptoms and can remain contagious for some time afterward. In children under two years of age, this can be as long as four weeks. A person over the age of two, is usually contagious for about one week.
Who is at risk of becoming seriously ill?
In most cases, an RSV infection is mild, but some people are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill:
- Children who were born prematurely
- Babies under six months of age
- Children under two years of age with Down syndrome or severe heart or lung disease
- Children with a weakened immune system, for example due to leukemia or HIV
- Adults over 75 years of age
- Adults over 60 years of age with a chronic health condition such as:
- Asthma
- Diabetes
- Heart failure
- COPD
- Severe obesity (a BMI of 40 or higher)
- Kidney or liver disease
- Coronary heart disease
- A weakened immune system
- Adults over 60 years of age who live in a nursing home
For a person in these high-risk groups, getting vaccinated against RSV may be advisable.
Which RSV vaccine is right for you?
Several RSV vaccines are available in the Netherlands, including Abrysvo and Arexvy. Which vaccine is best suited to you depends on factors such as your age, health, and personal circumstances. We would be happy to advise you during a personal consultation!
Should you get vaccinated?
The RSV vaccination is intended for people who are at increased risk of developing severe illness following an RSV infection. This includes babies, pregnant women, people over 75 years of age, and people over 60 with chronic health conditions.
Are you part of one of these groups? During a personal consultation, we will assess whether RSV vaccination is advisable for you and which form of protection is best suited.
Vaccination during pregnancy
Newborn babies are at increased risk of becoming seriously ill from RSV. Since September 2025, they have therefore been offered RSV immunisation through the Dutch National Immunisation Programme. Babies born between October and March receive the vaccine within two weeks after birth. Babies born between April and September receive the vaccine in September or October.
Pregnant women can also choose to get vaccinated. The vaccine stimulates the production of antibodies against RSV, which are passed to the unborn baby through the placenta. This means that these babies are already partially protected from birth.
Because the RSV season runs from November through March, vaccination during pregnancy is particularly useful if the baby is expected to be born during this period. This vaccination provides protection during the period between birth and the time when the baby can receive their own vaccination.
The optimal timing of vaccination depends, among other things, on the stage of pregnancy and the expected due date. During a consultation, we will discuss whether vaccination is appropriate in your situation and what the best timing would be.
Protection for babies
When the mother is vaccinated against RSV during pregnancy, the baby is partially protected from birth for one RSV season. Research shows that the vaccination is more effective when the baby is vaccinated directly. This is why RSV vaccination for babies is part of the Dutch National Immunisation Programme, while RSV vaccination for pregnant women is not.
Cost of RSV vaccination
The cost of RSV vaccination is not covered by health insurance and must therefore be paid for out of pocket. For the most up-to-date information on costs, please visit our pricing page.
When is the best time to get vaccinated?
The best time to get vaccinated depends on your personal situation. For pregnant women, the stage of pregnancy is an important factor. For other adults, vaccination is generally recommended before the start of the RSV season, which typically begins in autumn. During a consultation, we will discuss your situation and determine the best time for you to get vaccinated.
Schedule an appointment
Are you unsure whether RSV vaccination is right for you? Or would you like to know which form of protection best suits your situation? Our nurses are happy to advise you during a personal consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both vaccines provide the same duration of protection: after a single dose, you are protected for two to three RSV seasons. The main difference between the vaccines is who they are intended for. Which vaccine is suitable depends on factors such as your age, whether you are pregnant and your health status. During a consultation, we will discuss which vaccine is most suitable for your situation.
The recommended age for RSV vaccination varies depending on the target group. Vaccines are available for pregnant women, newborn babies, elderly adults and some adults who are at increased risk of developing severe cases of RSV. During a personal consultation, we can discuss whether vaccination is advisable for you.
RSV vaccination is not covered by health insurance and must therefore be paid for out of pocket. Please visit our pricing page for the most up-to-date overview of costs.
Anyone can become infected with RSV. Most adults develop cold-like symptoms after becoming infected. If you are over 75 years of age, or over 60 years of age and have a chronic health condition, you are at increased risk of becoming seriously ill.
The RSV season runs from November to March. It is therefore best to get vaccinated shortly before the start of the RSV season.
Yes. RSV vaccination is possible during certain times of pregnancy. The most suitable time depends on how far along you are and your expected due date. We are happy to provide you with personal advice about the best suitable time.
Hepatitis B antibody testing after vaccination
Written by: Lisanne | Published: 25 august 2026
Have you received the hepatitis B vaccine? If so, you may need to do an antibody testing to check whether you are adequately protected. This blood test is often recommended if your work, education, or internship puts you at increased risk of coming into contact with blood or other bodily fluids.
Haven’t received the hepatitis B vaccine yet? Learn more about the hepatitis B vaccine or schedule an appointment right away for personalized vaccination advice.
What is a titer test?
A titer test is a blood test that checks whether you have built up sufficient antibodies against hepatitis B.
Why is a titer test necessary?
Not everyone builds up the same amount of antibodies after receiving the hepatitis B vaccine. A titer test checks whether the vaccine has provided you with sufficient protection.
A titer test is primarily recommended if your work, education, or internship puts you at risk of coming into contact with blood or other bodily fluids. This includes, for example, healthcare workers, healthcare students, and other professional groups at increased risk of infection.
When do you get a titer test?
A titer test is usually performed about one month after the last hepatitis B vaccination.
This is especially common when, due to your profession or education, you need to prove that you are adequately protected against hepatitis B.
What do the results of an antibody test mean?
Adequately protected
Are the results adequate? If so, you have built up sufficient antibodies, and the vaccination provides adequate protection against hepatitis B.
Insufficient protection
If the results show that you are not yet sufficiently protected, we will look into the results to determine what next steps are needed. Depending on the results, an additional vaccination may be recommended.
Where can you get a titer test?
At vaccinatiecentrum.nl, we offer both hepatitis B vaccinations and titer tests. Did you get your vaccinations somewhere else? Even then, you can come to us for a titer test and personalized advice.
How much does a hepatitis B titer test cost?
You can find the cost of a titer test in our price list under “Blood analysis antibodies hepatitis A, B or C”. Do you have questions about the cost or would you like to make an appointment? Please feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help.
Make an appointment
Have you been vaccinated against hepatitis B and want to know if you’re adequately protected? Or does your employer, educational institution, or internship require a titer test? Make an appointment at one of our locations.
Need help making an appointment? Call us on weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at 085 902 03 03. We’re happy to help.
Veelgestelde vragen
A titer test is a blood test used to check whether your body has produced enough antibodies after receiving the hepatitis B vaccine. This determines whether the vaccine provides adequate protection.
A small amount of blood is drawn for a titer test. This feels similar to a regular blood draw and usually takes only a short time.
A titer test is usually performed about one month after the last hepatitis B vaccination. This is typically done when you need to prove that you are adequately protected for work, school, or an internship.
In some programs, you face an increased risk of coming into contact with blood or other bodily fluids during internships or lab sessions. A titer test is used to check whether the hepatitis B vaccination provides sufficient protection.
A low titer means that your body may not have produced enough antibodies against hepatitis B. We’ll discuss the results with you and advise you on any next steps.
Coverage for a titer test varies by health insurer and policy. Therefore, always check the terms of your health insurance plan.
Yes. Have you already received your hepatitis B vaccinations and would you like to check whether you’re adequately protected? In that case, you can also have just a titer test performed. Do you need help making an appointment? Call us on weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at 085 902 03 03. We’re happy to help.
Hepatitis B vaccination for healthcare students
Written by: Ruben | Published: 26 juni 2022 | Review: 21 juli 2026
Are you planning to do an internship in the healthcare sector? Then you'll probably need a hepatitis B vaccine.
Are you planning to do an internship in the healthcare sector soon, or are you starting a program such as a bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Medicine, Dental Hygiene, or Physical Therapy? If so, there’s a good chance you’ll need a hepatitis B vaccination.
What is hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a serious infectious disease of the liver. It can be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth, through sexual contact, or through contact with infected blood.
Would you like to learn more about hepatitis B, the disease itself, and the vaccine? Read more on our page about the hepatitis B vaccine.
Do I still need a hepatitis B vaccine if I was vaccinated as a child?
Since 2011, the hepatitis B vaccine has been part of the National Immunization Program. As a result, most people born on or after 2011 were vaccinated against hepatitis B as children.
Are you planning to work in healthcare or do a healthcare internship? In that case, the vaccination from the National Immunization Program alone is usually not sufficient. For healthcare workers and healthcare students, it’s important to check whether the vaccination still provides adequate protection. That’s why a booster shot and a titer test are often necessary.
People born before 2011 were generally not vaccinated against hepatitis B through the National Immunization Program. Vaccination is also recommended for them if they belong to a high-risk group, such as healthcare workers and healthcare students.
For which programs is a hepatitis B vaccination required?
A hepatitis B vaccination is required for many medical, paramedical, and healthcare programs. This applies to programs where you may come into contact with blood or other bodily fluids during internships, clinical rotations, or lab sessions.
Examples include:
- HBO-V
- Medicine
- Dental Hygiene
- Dentistry
- Physical Therapy
- BMH
- Midwifery
- Police
Do the shots hurt?
Most people tolerate the vaccine well. You’ll feel a brief prick when you get the shot, and your arm may be a little tender or sore the next day. Our experienced nurses take the time to reassure you, even if you’re nervous about getting vaccinated. Serious side effects are rare.
How much does a hepatitis B vaccination cost?
If you receive a notice through your school or university, they will usually offer it for free.
If you don’t receive a notice through your educational institution, you’ll typically have to cover the costs yourself. In exceptional cases, a health insurance provider may reimburse the cost of the vaccination. Always check your policy terms and conditions.
A hepatitis B vaccination is a key requirement for many roles in the healthcare sector. By getting vaccinated on time, you’ll be well prepared for your internship and future career.
How many hepatitis B vaccinations do you need?
Three doses are required: two doses one month apart, followed by a third dose 6–12 months later. In addition, a blood test one month after the third dose is recommended for people at occupational risk. This is done to check whether the immune system has responded properly to the vaccine and whether an additional dose may be needed.
Combining Hepatitis A and B Vaccinations
Are you planning an internship or vacation in a country where hepatitis A is prevalent? If so, you can choose to get vaccinated against both hepatitis A and hepatitis B at the same time.
A combination vaccine is available for this purpose. With this vaccine, after three doses, you’ll be protected against hepatitis A for at least 50 years and protected against hepatitis B for life.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss together whether a combination vaccine is appropriate for your situation.
Schedule an appointment for your hepatitis B vaccination
Are you about to start an internship or a healthcare program? Make sure you find out in time whether you’re adequately protected against hepatitis B.
Our nurses will be happy to advise you on the vaccination, any booster shots you may need, and the antibody titer test.
Schedule an appointment online right away, or contact us if you have any questions. We’re happy to help.
FAQ
A hepatitis B vaccination is required for many (para)medical and healthcare programs. This applies to programs where you may come into contact with blood or other bodily fluids during internships, clinical rotations, or lab sessions. Examples include the Higher Professional Education in Nursing (HBO-V), Midwifery (BMH), Physical Therapy, Medicine, Dentistry, and the Police Academy.
Since 2011, the hepatitis B vaccination has been part of the National Immunization Program. As a result, most people born in 2011 or later were vaccinated as children. Are you planning to work or do an internship in the healthcare sector? In that case, this vaccination is usually not sufficient. Often, a booster shot and a titer test are needed to check whether you are still adequately protected.
Three doses of the vaccine are needed for full protection against hepatitis B. The first two doses are given one month apart. The third dose is given 6 to 12 months later. Afterward, a titer test is recommended for people at occupational risk.
For people at occupational risk, a blood test is recommended one month after the third hepatitis B vaccination. This antibody titer test allows us to check whether your immune system has built up sufficient protection.
The titer test shows whether your immune system has responded sufficiently to the vaccine. If the protection turns out to be insufficient, we’ll work with you to determine what next steps are needed.
Absolutely! Make an appointment to get vaccinated. You’re welcome to visit one of our locations in Wageningen, Nijmegen, Utrecht, Den Bosch, or Eindhoven.
Planning a last-minute trip? You can often still get vaccinated
Written by: Ruben | Published: 2 July 2026
Going on a last-minute trip?
Make sure to get your vaccinations in time
Your trip is booked, your suitcase is already half open, and suddenly you wonder: do I still need any vaccinations? Many travelers can relate to this. Fortunately, having little time to prepare doesn’t mean you have to leave unprotected. Even right before departure, we’re happy to provide you with helpful advice and vaccinations.
Is it still worth making an appointment right before departure?
At vaccinatiecentrum.nl, we often see travelers who stop by just before departure. The most frequently asked question: “I’m leaving soon—is it still worth it?” The short answer is usually: yes. Even if your trip starts in just a few days, a consultation can be helpful. Some vaccinations take effect quickly, others can be administered on an accelerated schedule, and personalized advice can make a big difference, especially at the last minute. And even if vaccinations are no longer an option, we’ll give you advice on how to protect yourself while traveling. We always consider your specific situation: destination, duration of the trip, and planned activities.
Which vaccinations are important for last-minute travelers?
Which vaccinations are needed depends on your destination and what you’ll be doing there. Still, we regularly see the same key considerations for last-minute travelers:
- DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, polio) has expired for many people
- Hepatitis A is often underestimated, even though the risk exists even on short vacations
Some vaccinations provide basic protection after just one shot. Even if completing the full series is no longer feasible, it can still be worthwhile to start.
How soon can I get an appointment?
In many cases, we can see you on short notice. A consultation usually takes twenty to thirty minutes, and we can often administer the vaccine right away during the same appointment.
Not sure if it’s still worth it? Feel free to call or email us. It’s better to check with us than to travel while feeling uncertain.
Can I travel immediately after a vaccination?
That’s a frequently asked question. In most cases, you can travel just fine after a vaccination. Sometimes you may experience mild side effects such as muscle pain or fatigue, but for most travelers, flying is not a problem.
We’ll tell you during the consultation what to expect, so you can leave well-prepared.
What if I’m too late for a full vaccination series?
Sometimes it’s no longer possible to complete the full vaccination series. Even then, we’ll explore what options are still available. For example:
- Starting with vaccines that provide basic protection
- Information on mosquito repellents and other preventive measures
- Advice on medication or emergency solutions for your trip
Especially for a last-minute trip, small adjustments can make a big difference.
Are you traveling soon? We’re here to help
Are you leaving soon and not sure what’s still possible? Then please contact us. You can also come to us for last-minute vaccinations.
Schedule your appointment today, and together we’ll ensure you’re well and safely prepared for your trip.
STI vaccination: Which STIs can be prevented with vaccines?
Written by: Judith | Published: 21 oktober 2026
Did you know that you can get vaccinated against certain STIs? Vaccines against HPV and hepatitis B help protect you against infections transmitted through sexual contact. Hepatitis A can also be transmitted during sex. But which STIs cannot be prevented through vaccination? We explain.
Which STIs can be prevented through vaccination?
An STI is a sexually transmitted infection. Some STIs are caused by viruses, while others are caused by bacteria. Vaccines are available against certain viral infections that can be transmitted through sexual contact.
Infection | Sexually transmitted | Vaccine available |
|---|---|---|
HPV | Yes | Yes |
Hepatitis B | Yes | Yes |
Hepatitis A | Through certain types of sexual contact | Yes |
Chlamydia | Yes | No |
Gonorrhoea | Yes | No |
Syphilis | Yes | No |
HIV | Yes | No |
Vaccinations help prevent infections and possible complications. However, they do not protect against all STIs. That is why safer sex practices and STI testing, when appropriate, remain important.
HPV vaccination: protection against certain types of cancer
HPV stands for human papillomavirus and is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. The virus spreads mainly through intimate skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity.
Most people will get an HPV infection at some point in their lives. In many cases, the body clears the virus naturally without causing any symptoms. Some types of HPV cause genital warts, while others increase the risk of several types of cancer, including cervical, anal and penile cancer, as well as certain cancers of the mouth and throat.
HPV vaccination protects against several types of HPV that cause these conditions.
Read more about HPV vaccination
Hepatitis B vaccination: protection against a liver infection
Hepatitis B is an infectious disease caused by the hepatitis B virus. The virus can be transmitted through sexual contact and contact with infected blood.
Some people experience few or no symptoms. Others develop symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain or jaundice. In some people, the infection becomes chronic. Over time, this can lead to serious liver damage, liver cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Vaccination provides effective, long-term protection against hepatitis B.
Read more about hepatitis B vaccination
Hepatitis A vaccination: when is vaccination recommended?
Hepatitis A is not typically classified as an STI, but the virus can be transmitted during sexual contact. This mainly occurs through contact with faecal matter, for example during oral-anal sex.
Hepatitis A causes inflammation of the liver. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain and jaundice.
Most people recover completely, but the illness can be severe. Recovery sometimes takes several weeks or even months.
Read more about hepatitis A vaccination
Which STIs cannot be prevented through vaccination?
Vaccines are not available for all STIs. Currently, there are no approved vaccines against chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis or HIV.
However, this does not mean that you cannot protect yourself against these infections.
Using condoms reduces the risk of many STIs. Regular testing, open communication with sexual partners and timely treatment also play an important role.
For HIV, preventive medication such as PrEP is also available for people at increased risk of HIV infection.
Vaccination is therefore just one part of protecting your sexual health.
Who should consider STI vaccination?
Not everyone needs the same vaccinations. Whether vaccination against HPV, hepatitis A or hepatitis B is beneficial for you depends on several factors.
These include:
Your age.
Which vaccinations you have already received.
Your health and medical history.
Your sexual contacts and risk of exposure.
Your work, education or travel plans.
During a personal consultation, our healthcare professionals assess your individual situation. You will receive advice on which vaccinations may be appropriate for you.
Frequently asked questions about STI vaccinations
Vaccines are available against HPV and hepatitis B. Both infections can be transmitted through sexual contact. Hepatitis A can also be transmitted through certain types of sexual contact, and a vaccine is available against this infection as well.
Yes. Adults who have not received the HPV vaccine through the Dutch National Immunisation Programme can still get vaccinated. Whether vaccination is beneficial depends on factors such as your age and personal circumstances.
No. Hepatitis B can be transmitted through sexual contact, but also through contact with infected blood and from mother to child during childbirth.
No. A vaccine only protects against the infection or specific types of the virus it is designed to prevent. For example, the HPV vaccine does not protect against all types of HPV or against other STIs.
The cost depends on the vaccine and the number of doses required. Whether vaccination is covered by your health insurance also depends on your personal circumstances. Check our current prices or contact us for more information.
STI testing and vaccinations at one location
Vaccinatiecentrum.nl and Healthcare Hub are located in the same building in Wageningen. At Healthcare Hub, you can get STI testing and advice on sexual health. For vaccinations against HPV, hepatitis A and hepatitis B, you can visit vaccinatiecentrum.nl.
This means you can access different forms of STI prevention at one location.
Personal advice on STI vaccinations
Would you like to know whether vaccination against HPV, hepatitis A or hepatitis B is recommended for you? At vaccinatiecentrum.nl, we take your personal circumstances and vaccination history into account.
Our healthcare professionals discuss which vaccinations are appropriate for you and answer any questions you may have.
Why personal travel health advice still matters
Written by: Marchel | Published: 29 October 2019
Why personal travel health advice still matters
My children buy clothes online. They try them on and return them. We no longer cook for ourselves but order food and have it delivered to our door. In healthcare, we are also increasingly shopping around, and we are all scouring the internet for cheap healthcare and special offers.
Health insurance providers are following this trend. I think that in 10 years’ time, we won’t have our own GP or dentist anymore. If you need to see a dentist or GP, you’ll log in to a website and visit a GP or dentist assigned by your health insurance provider.
In this day. where there is less and less human contact and personal attention, yet the need for it is actually growing, I think it is time to realise that we are heading in the wrong direction. I believe that small scale and the people youbtrustm are the ones who can give people the quality they need.
I always buy my household appliances from a small retailer in the town where I live. I trust the people who work there. I’ve known them for years and am convinced of their expertise.
If something breaks, I can go back and have it repaired. If I have any questions, they can answer them. The service is excellent and I always go home feeling happy.
If you’re planning a trip to the tropics, taking your children to a faraway destination, or need information about the side effects of malaria tablets, it’s comforting to know you can count on an organisation you trust and where you know the people. That way, your journey begins with personalised, expert advice.
I hope the trend in the healthcare sector will reverse. Many of the vaccinatiecentrum.nl loyal customers have been coming here for years and have trust in our knowledge and expertise. Due to the policies of insurance companies, many of these loyal customers are being forced to get their vaccinations elsewhere. Fortunately, many people are switching insurance providers so that they can continue to come to us for vaccinations and advice.
As an organisation, we are doing everything we can to ensure the quality of our vaccination services and travel advice remains high. Time will tell which direction we are heading in these uncertain times, as we find ourselves growing increasingly distant from one another.
Foto: Joseph Chan on Unsplash
Avoid unpleasant surprises while travelling
Written by: Marchel | Published: 14 October 2019
Avoid unpleasant surprises while travelling
Travel and holidays bring out both the best and the worst in people. To a large extent, you determine yourself how much strain you put on your body and mind. Of course, you also depend on the circumstances and on what you encounter along the way. That is partly what makes travelling an adventure.
There is a lot you can do to avoid unpleasant surprises. Getting vaccinated against diseases is an important first step, and receiving proper advice about this is essential.
There is a great deal of useful information available online to help you make informed choices. However, expert guidance remains essential. Not only when deciding whether to get vaccinated and against which diseases, but especially when it comes to understanding what it is like to travel in exotic countries.
During the preparation phase, our experienced nurses and doctors support you with practical advice based on real travel experience under primitive conditions. They help you not only with information about vaccinations and malaria, but also with understanding what happens to your body when you travel. For example, travelling and the stress that comes with it can affect your overall immune system. And your natural resistance is often your best protection against diseases in general.
In my opinion, the psychological and emotional aspects of travelling should also be discussed.
Experience, age, the duration of the trip, how the itinerary is planned — or whether there is no plan at all — all play a role.
It regularly happens that while travelling, people are overwhelmed by a sense of freedom, causing them to do things they would normally say: “I would never do that.”
Or afterwards they think: “How on earth could I have done that?”
This feeling often affects people who are travelling for several months for the first time and who underestimate the impact such a journey can have on their lives. Another factor is that travel is often idealised: it is supposed to be “fun.” Especially during long trips, feelings of loneliness, insecurity and stress can regularly arise.
In the coming period, I will try to share more about these topics.