2023-08-25 12:05:25
China’s zero-tolerance measures to combat the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in a significant increase in excess fatalities, reaching nearly 1.9 million people in just two months. This information comes from a report by Bloomberg News, which cites data from the US Medical Journal.
The report, based on estimates by Reuters, highlights that China’s strict measures implemented in December 2022 have resulted in a high excess fatality rate. These figures specifically include adults over 30 who died during the period of December 2022 to January 2023.
While the Chinese government previously reported a death toll of approximately 60,000 COVID-19 cases in various hospitals from December 2022 to mid-January 2023, the findings of the medical journal suggest a much higher number of fatalities.
The report is in line with predictions made by academic researchers and health groups, who have warned that the termination of China’s zero COVID policy could lead to increased mortality rates. With the cancellation of tracing measures and uncertainty around the death toll, the situation remains concerning.
Joseph Unger, senior author of the report and researcher in biostatistics and public health services at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, emphasizes the importance of strict measures to control the disease in China. “With the majority of the Chinese population lacking natural immunity to the virus and not being fully or insufficiently vaccinated, the sudden spread of the virus has caused serious consequences,” Unger states.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the cumulative death toll from COVID-19 among adults aged 45 and over stands at 1.1 million, with the United States reporting the highest number of deaths.
These recent findings highlight the challenges faced by China in managing the pandemic and the potential consequences of abruptly ending the zero COVID policy. As the situation develops, it will be crucial to monitor the impact on public health and the effectiveness of preventive measures in controlling the spread of the virus.
(25 Aug. 23)]
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