Amsterdam institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases

As of May 1, 2024, Professor of Clinical Virology and chair of the Department of Microbiology & Infection Prevention at Amsterdam UMC, Menno de Jong, will become the new director of the Center for Infectious Disease Control (Centrum Infectieziektebestrijding, CIb) at the RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment). Prof. de Jong succeeds Jaap van Dissel, who is retiring in April 2024. In his new role, Prof de Jong will remain connected to Amsterdam UMC (University Medical Center) as a professor, dedicating one day per week to this position.

At 60, prof. de Jong steps into the shoes of Jaap van Dissel, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on tackling emerging infectious diseases in the Netherlands. Those acquainted with prof. de Jong envision him seamlessly fitting into this role. Described as a 'thoughtful' individual by colleagues, he is praised for his innovative approach and holistic view that extends beyond virology, for example by including behavioral science. Anja Schreijer, who worked with him in the Outbreak Management Team (OMT), highlights his ability to navigate the challenges posed by new infectious diseases.

Prof. de Jong gained prominence during the COVID-19 crisis, earning recognition as an articulate explainer in the media. His scientific background, including a PhD on HIV in the 1990s, and experience in Vietnam during the H5N1 outbreak, adds depth to his expertise. Notably, his time in Vietnam emphasized the importance to him of well-conducted studies in understanding infections—a valuable asset for his current position.

In 2008, prof. de Jong returned from the Ho Chi Minh City Hospital for Tropical Disease to the Netherlands as a professor of clinical virology and head of the microbiology department at the Amsterdam UMC, location AMC. During the COVID-19 pandemic, prof. de Jong, together with the GGD, established the ARGOS network, designed to swiftly identify new virus variants and their symptoms. Known for thinking 'out of the box,' prof. de Jong's management style is marked by a blend of innovation and averse-to-impossibility attitude. Colleagues commend his humor, unique ideas, and boyish charm, making him not just a competent professional but also an enjoyable companion.

Despite his unassuming nature, prof. de Jong has demonstrated the capability to make tough decisions—a quality essential in his new role as the country's infectious disease fighter. His broad perspective, shaped by his experiences in Vietnam, is expected to be an asset in navigating the challenges ahead.

Prof. de Jong's candid observations during the COVID-19 crisis, where he felt the government was too reliant on Van Dissel, showcase his willingness to speak out for the greater good. Prof. de Jong's personal journey, including battling severe COVID-19, adds a relatable touch to his public persona. When he contracted COVID-19, Prof. de Jong had to use oxygen at home. 'I took a smiling selfie with my oxygen tube. 'Good stuff, that oxygen,'' he said in an interview.

As he takes on the mantle of infectious disease control, Prof. de Jong's journey promises a dynamic blend of wisdom, wit, and a commitment to steering the Netherlands through the ongoing challenges posed by infectious diseases.

Let’s all congratulate Prof. de Jong! From the Amsterdam institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases we are wishing you tremendous success in your new role.

Source: this article is a revised version of an article originally published in Dutch in the Volkskrant, authored by Maarten Keulemans. Access the original piece here.

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