More people died than expected in April, May and June 2022. Statistics Netherlands (CBS) reports this on the basis of preliminary data on causes of death. The increased mortality may be partly due to the flu epidemic that began in mid-March.
Mortality was particularly high among the over 65s and people using the Long Term Care Act (WLZ), such as nursing home residents.
It is also noteworthy that the number of deaths from COVID-19 has decreased. In the second quarter, 1,420 people died from the aftermath of the crown. That was almost 2,000 fewer than in the previous three months. Compared to the same quarter of 2021, this number even decreased by 46%.
At the same time, the number of deaths from respiratory diseases has increased. According to the statistics office, this could have something to do with the flu epidemic that began in mid-March and lasted for thirteen weeks.
Excess mortality partly due to the corona pandemic
Since the corona pandemic, the death toll has often been higher than expected. Statistics Netherlands previously concluded that the excess mortality is partly due to the corona pandemic, but that this disease cannot explain everything.
The exact causes of excess mortality are being studied. For example, delayed care and late diagnosis due to postponement of medical visits during blockages may also be related. Researchers have yet to find any indication that an as yet unknown side effect of vaccines plays a role.
Research into excess mortality is hampered by privacy regulations. As a result, researchers cannot obtain data on corona infections and vaccinations from RIVM and GGDs, for example. The parties involved are examining how the investigation can still be carried out.
