There have been no ‘excess deaths’ in Ireland during the coronavirus pandemic, according to new research

New research shows there were no excess deaths in Ireland during the core period of the pandemic from 2020 to 2022.

Research published by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) found that Ireland was one of nine OECD countries to avoid excess deaths over this period, with the fourth lowest death rate after New Zealand, Iceland and Norway. .

Excess mortality refers to the number of deaths from any cause over a given period of time that exceeds what would normally be expected. The OECD measured the difference between the number of people who died between 2020 and 2022 and the number of people who would be expected to die during that period if the pandemic had not occurred.

These numbers include people who died from COVID-19 without being tested, as well as people who died from other illnesses.

Excess deaths are considered a very objective measure, and scientists say it is the most reliable indicator of the overall impact of the pandemic in recent years.

Previous estimates of excess deaths during the pandemic did not take into account changes in population size or demographics.

The OECD reviewed the methodology used to calculate excess deaths and took into account national demographic trends.

Ireland’s total population grew by 8% between the 2016 and 2022 censuses, and the number of people aged 65 and over grew by 22% over the same period. This is more than double the 10% increase in the EU27 over the same period.

Adjusting mortality rates to account for these changes showed that Ireland recorded no excess deaths between 2020 and 2022. In fact, Ireland’s death rate was lower than expected.

Minister Donnelly said: “I am very pleased to report that Ireland’s excess mortality rate during the core phase of the pandemic was the fourth lowest among OECD countries.

“Ireland has asked many questions of its people during this time and the restrictions that have been introduced have had a serious impact on all of us.

“These figures demonstrate the success of Ireland’s public health measures and the strong uptake of the coronavirus vaccination programme.”

Chief Medical Officer Professor Breda Smith said: “The OECD working paper highlights some of the important caveats associated with previously published estimates of excess mortality during the core phase of the pandemic.” Stated.

“During this period, the Irish people have demonstrated strong compliance with public health measures, making Ireland’s coronavirus vaccination program one of the most successful in the world, with 96% of the adult population vaccinated. Have been vaccinated.

“We know that vaccines not only save lives, but also prevent serious illness and hospitalization.

“COVID-19 is still with us and our immunity wanes over time, so keep your flu vaccine up to date and get a booster shot against COVID-19 this winter. I would like to remind everyone who is entitled to do so.”