The mites originated from a recently abandoned starling nest situated just under the roof next to the ceiling of the bedroom. Since their natural hosts had left their nesting these mites had migrated into the building in search of alternative hosts. This species cannot survive on humans in the long term, but its bite can cause a severely itching papilomatous rash, triggered by an allergic sensitation process by components of the mites' saliva. After diagnosis advise was given in order to stop this invasion and prevent a re-occurence in the future . The last 10 years has seen an immense improvement in hearing aids and implants for both deaf people and the hard of hearing.
Hearing aids are now smaller and more versatile.
In view of the increasing audiologic expertise and technological possibilities, a number of limitations in hearing aids, like hearing in noisy surroundings, are expected to have been completely eliminated in 20 years time. This will also cause a sharp increase in the price of hearing aids. In the Netherlands vaccination of neonates against hepatitis B is being considered. The RIVM has studied the cost-effectiveness of neonatal vaccination in comparison with the current vaccination policy. This targets risk groups such as homosexual men and persons working in medical professions and screening of pregnant women.