New data reveals coronavirus death toll is 9,000 more than official government figures

New data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed that the death rate in England and Wales is 33% higher than the Department of Health figures.
By Colin Ainscough
Published 19th May 2020, 11:08 BST
Updated 19th May 2020, 11:10 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The ONS figures show that there were 39,071 deaths involving Covid-19 in England and Wales up to May 8 (and which were registered up to May 16).

This compares with 29,349 deaths of people testing positive for Covid-19 reported by the Department of Health and Social Care for the same period.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It means the UK's actual death toll was more than 9,000 higher than the official government figure.

A member of clinical staff adjusts her mask as she wears Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) working in the Covid Recovery WardA member of clinical staff adjusts her mask as she wears Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) working in the Covid Recovery Ward
A member of clinical staff adjusts her mask as she wears Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) working in the Covid Recovery Ward

ONS figures include all mentions of Covid-19 on a death certificate, including suspected Covid-19, and are based on the date that deaths occurred.

The Department of Health figures are based on when deaths were reported, and are for deaths where a person has tested positive for Covid-19.

The news has confirmed fears that the overall death toll is significantly higher than figures being published by the government.

In the Lancashire County Council areas there have now been 4,284 confirmed cases.

The latest totals for the three in Lancashire are:

Lancashire - 3,351

Blackpool - 547

Blackburn - 386

Related topics:Office for National StatisticsCovid-19Department of HealthEnglandWalesLancashireLancashire County CouncilBlackpool