Coronavirus: Deaths of hospital patients with COVID-19 rise by 552 in England
Written by News on 28/04/2020
Another 552 people have died in England’s hospitals after contracting coronavirus – bringing the total to 19,301.
70 more people have died with COVID-19 in Scotland – taking the total to 1,332.
And 17 more people have passed away in Wales – putting the deal toll at 813.
The latest figures for Northern Ireland have not yet been released.
The true number of people who have died with the virus – including in care homes, hospices and the community – is believed to be higher.
In its latest estimate, the Office for National Statistics calculated the death toll as of 17 April was 52% higher than the figure released by the government.
It found 21,284 people died with the virus by that date, compared to the figure of 13,917 of hospital patient deaths announced on that date.
Meanwhile, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has advised people from now on to wear non-medical face coverings in places they can’t easily be two metres away from other people – such as in shops and on public transport.
The UK government has avoided making the same recommendation so far but says the policy is being kept under review by its scientific advisers.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson took part in a minute’s silence for key workers who have died during the pandemic, promising: “The national will not forget you.”
Across the country, healthcare staff, some in tears, bowed their heads as they remembered their colleagues, followed in some instances by applause.
The lockdown is expected to last until at least Thursday 7 May, when Mr Johnson and the leaders of the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will likely meet to review whether to extend or ease the strict social distancing measures.
(c) Sky News 2020: Coronavirus: Deaths of hospital patients with COVID-19 rise by 552 in England
