Covid-19 death statistics reflect devastation caused by disease - Ministers

Date published: 17 April 2020

New detail on Covid-19 related deaths is a reflection of the devastating impact of the disease in our society, Ministers have said.

Covid-19 News

The data published this morning by NISRA indicates that 157 people died up to 10 April 2020 where Covid-19 was involved in their death. That is 39 more people than had previously been reported from the data on confirmed cases for the same period.

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.”

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.”

Notes to editors: 

1. Media enquiries should be directed to the relevant department using the following email addresses: 

The Executive Office: Press.Office@executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk
Department of Health: PressOffice@health-ni.gov.uk
Department of Finance (for queries on the NISRA statistics) - dof.pressoffice@finance-ni.gov.uk

Out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer on 028 9037 8110.

2. Statistics on weekly deaths registered in Northern Ireland can be found at: www.nisra.gov.uk/publications/weekly-deaths

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