Unraveling Germany's Record-Breaking November Death Toll 🚀
Excess Mortality Rises by 14 Percent Above Average Levels
Last month saw a staggering jump in Germany's death toll, with a whopping 11% increase compared to the average of the past five years. Things got even more alarming towards the end of November, with a 14% hike in reported deaths. Here's a breakdown of what went down 📉
According to figures released by the Federal Statistical Office, at least 84,480 souls bid farewell to the world in November, marking a somber milestone last seen in 1974. The upward trend in monthly fatalities had been creeping up gradually throughout the month. By the last week of November (48th calendar week), a chilling 20,699 lives had been claimed—a grim 14% higher than the average for the years 2016 to 2019.
The escalating figure can't be pinned down solely to old age, as one may initially suspect due to the steep increase among the 80+ age group. However, it's essential to acknowledge that Germany's elderly population has been steadily growing, with the number of residents 80 and over rising from 4.7 million in 2015 to 5.7 million in 2019.
But here's the kicker 💣 The COVID-19 pandemic has been walkin' ‘n talkin' all over the stats, causing a significant disruption in Germany's mortality rates. In the 48th calendar week alone, the number of deaths among individuals who had previously tested positive for Covid-19 was an astounding 2,579—nearly reaching the deviation from the average of previous years. This figure currently stands at 4,179 Covid-19 deaths within seven days post-Christmas 🎄.
There's more to this tale, my friend, as the impact of the pandemic extends far beyond direct deaths. Here's why 🤭
The Pandemic's Whispers
Other scientific surveys suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic may have indirectly contributed to the increased death toll in November by exacerbating medical-conditions related to health-and-wellness, such as delayed diagnoses and treatments for non-COVID illnesses. Additionally, the situation has highlighted the importance of comprehensive health-and-wellness approaches, as people throughout Germany have struggled to deal with the emotional and mental strains caused by the pandemic.
