Commenting on the monthly mortality data for August 2021 published by the Office for National Statistics, Nuffield Trust Deputy Director of Research Dr Sarah Scobie said:
"Despite lower levels of cases over summer, the number of deaths recorded in England for August is sitting significantly higher, around 10%, than we'd expect to see for this time of year. These excess deaths, coupled with the fact that Covid remains the third leading cause of death in England, resulting in over 2,000 deaths in this month alone, show that this pandemic's heavy burden continues.
"Cases are likely to rise as we enter the autumn, and given this will coincide with a time the NHS is under significant pressure, we should not lose sight of the continuing and tragic impact this virus is having on families up and down the country."
Notes to editors
- The Office for National Statistics monthly mortality statistics for August are available from: https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/bulletins/monthlymortalityanalysisenglandandwales/august2021#main-points
- The Nuffield Trust is an independent health think tank. We aim to improve the quality of health care in the UK by providing evidence-based research and policy analysis and informing and generating debate.
- For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
- Simon Keen on 07780 475571 or simon.keen@nuffieldtrust.org.uk
- Meesha Patel on 07920 043844 or meesha.patel@nuffieldtrust.org.uk