Letter from mayor Tjapko Poppens regarding the corona virus

Dear residents,

The number of coronavirus infections in the Netherlands is slowly increasing. A number of residents in our region have also been infected; they have mild symptoms and are under home isolation.

I understand that many residents and businesses in Amstelveen have questions and concerns. In this letter, I will address some of the frequently asked questions. I would like to emphasise that although the situation is unpredictable in the coming period, at present there is no cause for great concern.

The Ministry of Health and the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) are working closely with the Amsterdam Public Health Service (GGD) to protect public health throughout the Netherlands, in the region and in Amstelveen and to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. That means that we are now trying to contain the virus as much as possible. If someone is infected or if there is a suspicion of infection, the people they have been in contact with will be examined. If necessary, the person will be placed in self isolation to prevent the virus from spreading further. It is neither necessary nor possible to test everyone: the GGD decide who will be tested.

At the moment, public life can continue as usual. There is no reason to cancel events or close buildings. Everyone can continue to go to work, school or other public places. Organisations holding meetings and institutions that receive large numbers of visitors do not have to take any additional measures.

I would like to ask you to bear in mind that your doctor and the GGD will be busier than usual at this time. If you only have a cold or have a fever, you can stay at home to recover and you do not have to call the doctor. Please call your doctor if you have a fever and respiratory complaints and if you have been to an area where the coronavirus is currently prevalent. Your doctor will consult the GGD to see if you need a test.

The most important measures you can take yourself to prevent coronavirus infection are:

• Wash your hands regularly;
• Cough and sneeze into the crook of your elbow;
• Use paper tissues.

The City of Amstelveen and the regional emergency services will keep you regularly updated and will inform you immediately if the spread of the virus enters a new phase and additional measures are needed.

We sincerely hope that all those infected will recover as soon as possible.

Kind regards,

Tjapko Poppens,
mayor

If you have any questions or you would like more information, please see the information, guidelines and advice provided by the government, the RIVM and the GGD. This information you can also find on the page English information corona virus. A national information number is available for additional questions: 0800-1351.