rssAug 11, 2026, 16:00

Ophthalmologists and optometrists concerned about solar eclipse: 'Permanent black spot'

Dutch ophthalmologists and optometrists are warning the public about the risks of permanent eye damage caused by watching the upcoming solar eclipse without certified protective glasses. Experts emphasize that viewing the eclipse unprotected can cause permanent retinal burns, and they urge the public to only use proper, certified safety eyewear.

Health Amsterdam Haarlem Netherlands

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Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Chatterbox Roderik connects people with each other

Roderik Schaepman has launched the Week of the Conversation, an initiative aimed at encouraging social interaction to combat loneliness and declining communication skills. By setting up designated spaces at locations like the Haarlem train station, he encourages people to overcome social hesitation through simple steps like greeting and complimenting strangers.

Concerns over ending emergency care in Hoofddorp? Information evening draws few visitors

The Spaarne Gasthuis hospital plans to centralize 24-hour emergency care in Haarlem-Zuid by 2033, effectively closing the emergency department in Hoofddorp. Despite significant public and political backlash regarding travel times, a recent information evening in Hoofddorp drew very few attendees.

Veilig Thuis Amsterdam sounds the alarm: 'We sometimes cannot investigate neglect or structural violence in time'

Veilig Thuis Amsterdam has issued an urgent warning that severe staffing shortages and a rise in abuse reports are hindering its ability to investigate cases of neglect and violence promptly. The organization fears that these constraints could cause critical delays, leaving vulnerable individuals in ongoing dangerous situations.

No new snack bars near schools? Amsterdam looks for legal ways to limit unhealthy food options

Amsterdam is attempting to legally restrict new unhealthy food outlets, especially near schools, by testing the boundaries of current environmental laws in court. The city hopes this pilot case will either empower local authorities to act now or provide the necessary evidence to pressure the national government into finalizing a new Food Act.

Municipality to open its own healthy restaurant to combat excess of fast food outlets

The Amsterdam municipal government plans to open and then deny a permit for its own unhealthy restaurant to test legal limits regarding health-based zoning. By taking the matter to court, officials aim to establish a precedent that would allow the city to restrict new fast-food establishments in the future.