Changing measures

Why were “almost all reported deaths” before April 29th in hospital?

On the UK’s daily reported measure of COVID-19 deaths, I wrote:

Before 29th April, almost all reported deaths were in hospital.

In this article, I delve deeper into that statement.

When in doubt, go to the source.

Reporting differences within countries

International comparisons are challenging. The measure sounds simple: how many people die with COVID-19?

Countries count this measure in different ways. Differences exist within countries too.

The Department of Health and Social Care figure comprises the four nations. ‘Tests’ refer to tests for the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Confirmed deaths must have a positive result from a Public Health or NHS laboratory.

Before 29th April, the definitions were:

• England (NHS England): confirmed deaths in hospitals. NHS trusts notify NHS England. The England count is up to 5pm on the previous day.
• Wales (Public Health Wales): suspected deaths from COVID-19 in hospitals and care homes. The deceased person must have tested positive for the virus. The Wales count is up to 5pm on the previous day.
• Scotland (Public Health Scotland): confirmed deaths in all places. The positive test result must be at most 28 days before…