NI's COVID-19 related death toll a third higher than previously reported

by Michael McHugh PA

Northern Ireland's coronavirus death toll is around a third higher than previously reported, official statisticians confirmed.

A total of 157 fatalities involving Covid-19 have been recorded  on death certificates up to April 10, the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (Nisra) said.

That represents an increase of 39.

More than two thirds, 109, happened in hospital.

Another 41 occurred in care homes and hospices, around a quarter.

Those involved 23 separate establishments.

The remaining seven happened at people's own homes.

(Graphs source: NISRA)

The Public Health Agency (PHA) in Northern Ireland had previously reported 118 deaths involving the infection up to April 10 because of differences in how the statistics are gathered.

It relies on a patient having previously tested positive for the virus.

Nisra counts the findings of death certificates filled out by medical professionals and registered.

NISRA has also compiled a dashboard of statistics including the number of respiratory deaths registered and deaths registered in 2020 up until the 10th April.

It also includes a breakdown of covid-19 deaths registered weekly, by age and sex. 

https://files.nisra.gov.uk/Births,%20Deaths%20and%20Marriages/Weekly-Deaths-Dashboard.html

Meanwhile, Stormont leaders have said the new detail on Covid-19 related deaths is a reflection of the devastating impact of the disease in society.

First Minister Arlene Foster said, “The publication of this additional detail on Covid-19 related deaths across Northern Ireland provides a fuller picture of the course of the virus across our communities which will help inform the Executive’s ongoing response.

"But it is also extremely sad, as we learn that Covid-19 has robbed many more families of their loved ones.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have lost someone to this disease. We think particularly of all those who have passed away in care homes and I want to send a very clear message to their families that your precious loved ones will not be forgotten.”

The deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “We know that older people are particularly susceptible to the devastating effects of Covid-19, and our care homes are very vulnerable at this time.

"Every death as a result of Coronavirus is a tragedy and it is right that we recognise every life lost to this disease. I send my sincere condolences to all those who have lost loved ones in the most difficult circumstances.

“This new breakdown is a truer reflection of the scale of the pandemic in our community and is a poignant reminder of the need for everyone to stay at home; observe social distancing; and keep washing your hands. These actions will help to save more lives.”

(First Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill at the Executive's daily press conference)

Meanwhile, concerns have been expressed about the situation in care homes.

Stormont health minister Robin Swann has said he wants to reassure people that relatives are receiving the support and care they need there.

Health Minister Robin Swann said: “The daily surveillance report published by the Public Health Agency is a vital tool, giving a timely indication of the current situation and enabling us to anticipate pressures in our health service.

"In addition to this, we have been working closely with NISRA to ensure we are capturing as full a picture as possible as to the impact of Covid-19 across the community and, in particular, in our care homes.

“Today’s report, which indicates that a further 39 deaths were connected to Covid-19 up to 10 April, while not unexpected is truly sobering. It reflects the cruel and heart-breaking reality of the situation we are faced with.

“Regardless of where any person passes away as a result of Covid-19; regardless of the age of that individual; and regardless of any underlying conditions they may have had, every death is just as devastating. I offer my deep sympathy to each and every person who has lost a loved one.”

Trade union Unison said its members who worked in care homes were reporting inadequate supplies of personal protective equipment.

Unison regional secretary Patricia McKeown said: "Recording these deaths is important, but preventing them is absolutely vital.

"We need answers as to how health authorities are going to protect vulnerable people in care homes, residential homes and in the community.

"Our members have a right to know what plan there is to increase testing, contact tracing and ensure the right methods are used to self-isolate those known or suspected cases."

Below is a link to NISRA's latest statistics: https://www.nisra.gov.uk/publications/weekly-deaths