Four people received euthanasia for long COVID last year

In 2025, four individuals in the Netherlands received euthanasia with long COVID syndrome identified as the primary reason for the procedure. Data from the Regional Euthanasia Review Committees (RTE) indicates that the youngest patient was 51 years old, while the remaining three were aged 65 or older. Although COVID-19 was a contributing factor in ten total euthanasia cases throughout the year, the specific post-COVID syndrome was the leading cause in only these four instances.

This marks a notable shift compared to previous years; in 2024, there were four cases involving COVID-19, but none where the syndrome was the primary cause, while in 2023, only one case was recorded. Currently, an estimated 450,000 people in the country suffer from long COVID, with 100,000 experiencing severe symptoms. Official figures from January 2026 further highlight the impact, showing that 15,000 individuals have been declared partially or fully incapacitated for work due to the condition.