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.
Diving while traveling: what you need to know about health and vaccinations
Written by: Lisanne | Published: 8 June 2026
Planning to go diving abroad? Make sure you’re well-protected before you hit the water
Diving is an unforgettable experience, but it puts a lot of strain on your body and comes with risks. This especially in tropical destinations, where infections and health issues are more common. With personalized travel advice and the right vaccinations, you can avoid problems underwater and set off with peace of mind. At vaccinatiecentrum.nl, we’re here to help.
Diving is a high-intensity sport for your body
Diving isn’t a relaxing activity for your body. Your heart, lungs, ears, and circulatory system are under pressure. You breathe compressed air, move underwater, and face either cold or tropical heat. That combination puts a lot of strain on your body, especially if you don’t have much diving experience or have a medical condition.
Our travel nurses will think with you to assess whether diving is medically safe in your situation.
Medical risks you need to consider as a diver
Diving involves different health risks than a regular vacation. Consider:
- Barotrauma due to pressure differences (e.g., eardrums or lungs)
- Decompression sickness (caisson disease) due to ascending too quickly
- Increased risk if you have a cold, asthma, or are taking certain medications
Are you taking medication or do you have a medical condition? Then diving medical travel advice is essential. Schedule your appointment with us in advance; we’ll determine what’s safe for your situation.
Tropical infections and minor injuries: Additional risks for divers
In tropical regions, divers face additional health risks. For example:
- Coral cuts or scrapes that can quickly become infected;
- Hepatitis A from contaminated water;
- Hepatitis B from cuts or contact with blood;
- Diarrhea and dehydration, which are more dangerous when diving.
We’ll help you get the right vaccinations, tailored to your destination.
What vaccinations do you need for diving?
The required vaccinations depend on your destination, your health, and the length of your trip. Commonly recommended for diving trips:
- Hepatitis A;
- DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, polio);
- Rabies (for cave diving or contact with animals underwater);
- Hepatitis B, due to an increased risk of cuts or infection.
Malaria protection is also required for some destinations. Please note: not all malaria pills are suitable for divers. Our doctor or nurse will work with you to determine what is safe and effective. Easily schedule your appointment online.
How to prepare for a diving vacation
A safe dive starts at home. Make sure you get your health check-up in time and have everything arranged:
- Schedule an appointment for personalized travel advice at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure;
- Bring a list of your medications or medical history;
- Make sure you have valid diving insurance;
- If necessary, get a diving medical exam (if medically indicated or required);
- Check whether you need an internationally recognized diving certification.
At vaccinatiecentrum.nl, we help you every step of the way. From advice to vaccinations and medication.
Personalized travel advice for divers
Planning to dive abroad soon? Make sure you’re well-informed and protected. At vaccinatiecentrum.nl, you’ll receive personalized travel advice from experienced nurses, tailored to your health, destination, and diving plans.
Avoid risks underwater. Schedule an appointment today for travel advice at a location near you.
Do you work outdoors a lot? Protect yourself with the TBE vaccine
Written by: Lisanne | Published: 6 May 2026
More ticks, more risk
Are you often in nature for work? Then you’re at risk of a tick bite. Many people are familiar with Lyme disease, but there’s another risk that’s becoming increasingly common: TBE, or tick-borne encephalitis.
TBE is a viral infection that can cause brain inflammation. Symptoms include fever, headache, and muscle pain. In some cases, permanent symptoms can develop, such as paralysis. Because TBE is a virus, antibiotics are ineffective.
The good news: there is a safe and effective vaccine.
What is the difference between Lyme disease and TBE?
Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria. TBE is caused by a virus. There is no vaccine against Lyme disease. There is one against TBE. That is why it may be wise to get vaccinated if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
Where does TBE occur?
TBE occurs in areas with dense forests and tall grass. It is found primarily in:
- Scandinavia and Eastern Europe
- Austria, Switzerland, and Southern Germany
- And, recently, in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, the Sallandse Heuvelrug and parts of North Brabant are high-risk areas. The risk is greatest in the spring and summer.
Who should consider getting the TBE vaccine?
Do you spend a lot of time working outdoors? If so, you are more likely to be bitten by a tick. The Health Council recommends the vaccine for people who spend a lot of time outdoors and are at risk several times a year.
This applies to:
- Landscape gardeners and gardeners;
- Forest rangers and land managers;
- People in forestry and horticulture;
- Military units in the field;
- Ecologists, biologists, and researchers;
- Volunteers and outdoor enthusiasts.
How does the TBE vaccine work?
The vaccine consists of three doses. You receive the first two doses one month apart. The third dose is given five to twelve months later. After that, you are protected for three years
For longer-term protection, you can get a booster shot. The vaccine is well-tolerated. Side effects are usually mild, such as fatigue or muscle pain.
You can easily get a TBE vaccination at Vaccinatiecentrum.nl. In some cases, the vaccination is covered by your employer or supplemental health insurance. Check with your supervisor or health insurer for details. You can find the current costs on our price page: View prices
Double your protection: with a vaccine and preventive measures
The TBE vaccine protects you against tick-borne encephalitis. It does not protect against Lyme disease. That’s why it’s wise to always take extra precautions:
- Wear long sleeves and pants;
- Use an insect repellent such as DEET;
- Check yourself for ticks afterward.
Only the TBE vaccine offers specific protection against the virus.
Make an appointment today
Do you often work outdoors or in nature? Then don’t wait. Get vaccinated on time. At vaccinatiecentrum.nl, we provide you with the right advice and the right protection.
Vaccinations and travel advice for long distance travel with children
Written by: Lisanne | Published: 12 February 2026
Travelling long distances with children is a wonderful adventure. Discovering new cultures together, making memories and seeing the world through your child’s eyes — it’s special and incredibly valuable. At the same time, travelling with children can bring slightly different challenges compared to travelling with adults, especially when it comes to health and safety.
The immune system of children is still developing. As a result, (tropical) infectious diseases can often be more severe in children. That’s exactly why good preparation is especially important. At vaccinatiecentrum.nl, we are happy to think along with you, so you can travel with peace of mind.
Vaccinations: personalised protection
For long distance travel, vaccinations are an essential part of the preparation. Many vaccinations given to adults are also suitable for children, sometimes in an adjusted dosage or with a different method of administration. We also check the timing in relation to the National Immunisation Programme and assess whether the duration of protection or general indication differs.
Every child is different, which is why we always provide personalised advice. We recommend visiting us at least six weeks before departure. This allows enough time for any follow-up vaccinations and ensures that vaccines have sufficient time to work optimally before travel.
Injections and anxiety: we take our time
For some children, injections can be quite stressful. Fear of pain, loss of control or simply the unknown can cause a lot of tension. We understand that very well. That’s why at vaccinatiecentrum.nl we take our time and ensure a calm, child-friendly approach.
For severe needle anxiety, special options are available, such as a needle anxiety consultation. With tools like the Buzzy or ShotBlocker, we can help reduce the sensation of pain. Feel free to contact us. We are happy to explain the options in more detail.
Mosquitoes: small insect, big risk
At many long distance destinations, mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue and zika. Young children are particularly vulnerable to these illnesses, making good mosquito protection crucial.
It is important to know that mosquito repellents containing DEET may need to be used in adjusted concentrations for children. In some situations, such as travel to high-risk malaria areas with children under five years old, travel may even be discouraged. During a (telephone) consultation, we discuss this thoroughly and honestly, so you can make a well-informed decision.
Dehydration and the travel health kit
Young children are more sensitive to dehydration than adults, especially in warm climates. Drinking enough fluids is essential to maintain a healthy water and salt balance. Traveller’s diarrhoea is common and must be treated quickly and appropriately in children.
A well-prepared travel health kit is therefore vital. Think of oral rehydration salts (ORS) to prevent dehydration, as well as sufficient sun protection to protect children’s sensitive skin from sunburn.
Setting off on an adventure with peace of mind
Travelling with young children sometimes requires a bit more preparation. But with the right advice, appropriate vaccinations and a well-equipped travel health kit, you can set off with confidence.
Make an appointment well in advance at vaccinatiecentrum.nl for personalised travel advice for your child. That way, you’ll depart well protected and can focus on enjoying the adventure together.
Schedule a telephone call or appointment by calling 085 902 03 03, or make an appointment right away via this link. We hope to see you soon!
Shingles Vaccination: Discover more
Written by: Lisanne | Published: 15 May 2025 | Reviewed: 29 January 2026
Shingles, a condition many are familiar with by name, yet its details often remain unknown.
Shingles manifests in various forms, each with its own story. Statistics show that one in four people will experience it.
In the Netherlands and beyond, attention is given to the symptoms and impact of shingles on daily life. The risk of shingles increases with age due to an aging immune system. The virus causing shingles can suddenly become active, especially in people who have had chickenpox. Although shingles usually resolves on its own, it can be accompanied by intense pain and long-lasting nerve pain, lasting for months to years.
On overgordelroos.nl, you will find extensive information and can share your story, giving shingles a face and sharing experiences.
Prevention of Shingles: The importance of vaccination
For individuals aged 50 and older, there is the Shingrix vaccine, designed to prevent shingles and associated nerve pain. This vaccine contains proteins from the surface of the shingles virus and enhances the body’s immune response. Clinical studies show that Shingrix has an effectiveness of 90% in preventing shingles in people over fifty years old. In many countries, it is successfully administered to seniors aged 60 and older.
Vaccination coverage
Shingles vaccination is reimbursed under certain conditions from the basic health insurance. Consult your health insurance provider for coverage options and terms.
Would you like to schedule a shingles vaccination appointment? You can click on this link or call us at 085 902 03 03.
When to switch health insurance: Best times to change providers
The further you travel and the longer your trip, the earlier you usually plan that trip in advance. Perhaps you are already making your travel plans for 2026. In that case, now is the ideal time to think about your health insurance. Does it fit well with your travel plans or would you be better off switching to another health insurance before the turn of the year? This blog will tell you what things to consider.
When are you allowed to change your health insurance?
Switching your health insurance policy or to another health insurance company cannot be done at any moment. Every year, there is a period of about 10 weeks in which this is allowed, beyond that it is not possible, with a few specific exceptions.
This year, health insurance companies are obliged to announce by 12 November 2024 how high their healthcare premiums will be in the coming year. From then on, you have seven weeks to decide whether you want to stay with your current health insurer. If you choose to switch, you must cancel your current insurance by 31 December at the latest. You then have until 31 January 2026 to take out a new health insurance policy, which will then apply retroactively from 1 January.
When is it a good idea to switch health insurance?
There are several reasons why you might want to switch health insurance. Maybe you have had bad experiences with your current insurance company, maybe another insurance company now offers a more favourable premium or maybe you expect to need more healthcare that is better covered by another insurance company. Therefore, during the period when you may switch, take a moment to think about the year to come.
Does your current insurance cover the healthcare costs and risks that may arise from your (travel) plans for the coming year?
During the switching period, not only can you choose to switch to another health insurer, you can also choose to take out or discontinue supplementary insurances. In the Netherlands basic health insurance is compulsory for everyone, but things like physiotherapy, new glasses or lenses, contraception and travel vaccines are often not covered. Therefore, also go over your plans for the coming year. Are you going to take up a new sport or train more intensively for a sport you already play? In doing so, you run an increased risk of injury, for which you may need physiotherapy. It may be wise to include this preventively in your supplementary insurance. The opposite also applies: have you had supplementary insurance for some time but never had to use the extra care covered by it? Then you may want to consider going back to just the basic insurance.
Your travel plans can also be decisive in choosing supplementary insurance. Are you planning a long trip, or will you be going to a country where you face health risks? If so, travel vaccines are often recommended, for example against hepatitis B, dengue fever or tick-borne encephalitis. There are also diseases against which there are no vaccines, but for which medication is sometimes recommended, such as malaria pills when travelling to areas where malaria is prevalent. In principle, travel vaccines and travel medication are not covered by basic health insurance. To avoid having to pay for these costs yourself, you can get supplementary insurance that does cover them.
Check which healthcare providers you can visit with your health insurance policy
Some basic health insurance policies require that for non-emergency care, you only go to hospitals and other healthcare providers they have a contract with. Check every year whether your insurer has a contract with healthcare providers in your area. If it turns out that there are no contracts with the hospital in your area and you have to travel more than an hour to the nearest hospital that your health insurer does have a contract with, you might want to look for another health insurance. Sometimes, you can also opt for a higher premium with your current insurer in exchange for free choice of care. But it can also be a reason to switch to another health insurance company altogether.
Even if you have supplementary health insurance that covers travel vaccines and/or travel medication, you cannot always get them at every travel vaccination agency. Therefore, check whether your current insurance or the new insurance you are considering has a contract with your preferred travel vaccination agency. Vaccinatiecentrum.nl has a contract with Interpolis, FBTO, Zilveren Kruis and De christelijke zorgverzekering. These also include ZieZo, Gemeenten Optimaal, Gemeente Amsterdam and AON Vitaal. If you are insured with one of these parties, the costs of a consultation, vaccinations and preventive medicines will be reimbursed 100%. We also send the bill directly to your health insurer, so you do not have to pay and submit the bill yourself.
Are you going to study abroad? If so, AON Vitaal is the recommended health insurance.
Do you want to switch? Then make sure to do so on time!
Make sure you think about whether your current health insurance still suits you well before 31 December. After that, you will not be allowed to cancel your insurance until the end of 2026. You must have taken out your new health insurance no later than 31 January. Do you want your consultation at vaccinatiecentrum.nl and your travel vaccines and/or travel medication to be reimbursed? If so, check carefully whether your current or new insurance company has a contract with us.
Published at 6 november 2023 and updated on 3 december 2025.
Who is the flu vaccination for and when can you get it?
Every autumn it happens again: the start of flu season. Because there are different types of flu viruses and these viruses are constantly adapting, you can become ill over and over again. Unfortunately, getting the flu once does not provide lifelong immunity. However, there are other ways to protect yourself against the flu, including the flu vaccination that is developed every year against the viruses that are most prevalent at that time. You can get this flu vaccination at several places including your GP (general practitioner) and vaccinatiecentrum.nl.
Why vaccinate against the flu?
First of all, the flu is not the same as a cold. The flu is a lot more serious. The symptoms can last for 1-3 weeks and for people in specific risk groups, it can have serious consequences; every year, some 4,700 people die from the flu. This is why a yearly study is carried out on which flu viruses are expected to circulate. Based on this study, a vaccine is formulated. With this vaccine, you have a smaller chance of catching the flu and, should you still get the flu, you will get less sick.
Who is the flu vaccination for?
A large group of people already receive an invitation for the flu vaccine from their doctor every year. This includes all people aged 60 and over, as well as women who are more than 22 weeks pregnant, people with a BMI over 40 and people who are at increased risk of a severe course of flu due to lung disease, diabetes or another condition. When you receive an invitation for the flu vaccine from your doctor, there is no cost involved.
However, you can also get the flu vaccine if you are not in a high-risk group. Healthcare workers, for example, can get the flu vaccine so that they are less likely to infect patients with the flu. Often, healthcare employers reimburse the flu vaccine for their staff. If this is not the case or if, as a healthcare employee, you go for the flu vaccination on your own initiative, it is at your own expense.
If you do not work in healthcare or do not fall in one of the risk groups, you can also arrange the flu vaccination yourself. You can do this at your own expense at vaccinatiecentrum.nl. Some supplementary health insurance policies offer reimbursement for the flu vaccination, the basic insurance does not.
Benefits of the flu vaccination
Those who fall into the risk groups are invited for the flu vaccination to better protect themselves. Even if you fall outside the risk groups, the flu vaccination can have many benefits. After all, you not only protect yourself with it, but also others. When you reduce the chance of getting the flu yourself, the chance of infecting someone else is also reduced. Earlier, healthcare workers were named as a special group that could get the vaccine for that reason. However, this applies to anyone who comes into frequent contact with potentially vulnerable people. For example, are you a caregiver? Then you might consider getting the flu vaccination to protect your loved ones.
Even when you are at low risk of complications, getting the flu is unpleasant. You will be out of the running for at least a week, but it can also last three weeks. To avoid illness, it may be worth considering getting vaccinated against the flu.
Where and when do you get the flu vaccination?
The flu season traditionally starts in December. Since it takes two weeks for the vaccine to take full effect, you can get the flu vaccine starting in October. This will protect you for one flu season. If you want long-term protection, you will have to get the flu vaccination every year.
If you fall into one of the groups that are offered a free flu vaccination you will be invited for this by your GP or institution doctor. Do you choose to get vaccinated on your own initiative? Then you can get the flu vaccination at your own expense at vaccinatiecentrum.nl. We offer a quadrivalent vaccine, which offers protection against the four flu viruses that are expected to be the most pathogenic at that moment.
Would you like to know more about the flu vaccination or schedule an appointment right away? Then feel free to contact us.
First published on 24-08-2023. Update on 17-11-2025.
Vaccination against gonorrhoea
Starting from August 1, 2025, the National Health Service (NHS), the public healthcare system of the United Kingdom, will offer meningococcal B vaccinations in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. This vaccination is part of the world’s first immunization campaign aimed at preventing gonorrhoea.
What is gonorrhoea?
Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The bacterium is transmitted through unprotected sexual contact including oral sex, hand contact and sharing of sex toys. It can be found in the mucous membranes of the vagina, urethra, anus and throat.
Symptoms of gonorrhoea may include:
• Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
• Discharge from the penis (commonly known as “the drip”)
• Bleeding between periods or increased vaginal discharge
However, not everyone with gonorrhoea develops symptoms. Without treatment, gonorrhoea can cause serious complications such as epididymitis or prostatitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, reduced fertility or ectopic pregnancy.
What is Bexsero?
Bexsero is a vaccine that provides protection against meningococcal type B, a bacterium that can cause severe illnesses such as meningitis and sepsis. In the Netherlands, children receive the meningococcal ACWY vaccine through the National Immunization Programme, as these types are the most common. Meningococcal B occurs less frequently in the Netherlands and is therefore not included in the programme partly because of the somewhat higher rate of side effects. In the United Kingdom, however, the Bexsero vaccine is part of the childhood vaccination programme.
Protection against gonorrhoea
Research has shown that the Bexsero vaccine (4CMenB) also offers some protection against gonorrhoea. This is because the meningococcal and gonorrhoea bacteria are genetically very similar, sharing about 80–90% of their DNA. Thanks to this genetic relationship, the vaccine provides what is known as cross-protection.
Studies indicate that the vaccine may reduce the risk of gonorrhoea by 30–40%. However, this protection is not complete and it is still unclear how long it lasts — most likely around two to three years.
Why a vaccination campaign in the United Kingdom?
The UK has decided to make the Bexsero vaccine freely available to high-risk groups such as gay and bisexual men. This decision follows a sharp increase in gonorrhoea infections: in 2023, more than 85,000 cases were reported in England. In addition, some strains of gonorrhoea have become resistant to antibiotics, including ceftriaxone, the current standard treatment. In a few cases, no antibiotic has been effective at all, highlighting the growing need for preventive measures such as vaccination.
Situation in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, the Bexsero vaccine is currently not part of the National Immunization Programme. Research into its effectiveness against gonorrhoea is still ongoing.
Vaccination on personal request
At vaccinatiecentrum.nl, you can choose to be vaccinated with Bexsero on your own initiative — both for protection against meningococcal B and (off-label) against gonorrhoea. The vaccination consists of two doses given at least four weeks apart. You pay for both the vaccine and the consultation. Current prices can be found on the price list.
Feel free to visit vaccinatiecentrum.nl for personal health advice or to schedule an appointment right away.
This blog is published 9 sept 2025