The death count from the COVID-19 pandemic since the start of the year has reached 72, with the majority of deaths recorded in St Catherine.

According to statistics obtained by Our Today from the Ministry of Health and Wellness, St Catherine recorded 17 deaths between January 1 and August 29 of this year. The Kingston and St Andrew area follows closely behind with 16 recorded deaths, and Westmoreland with 15.

Additionally, St Elizabeth had 10 deaths, St Thomas had six confirmed deaths, St James and Manchester had three deaths each, and Clarendon recorded two deaths. There were no confirmed deaths in Hanover, Portland, St Ann, St Mary, and Trelawny.

The health ministry noted that while St Catherine has the highest number of COVID-19 deaths so far, Westmoreland had the highest case fatality rate.

The highest overall fatality rate in 2023 was recorded in persons 60 years and older, while those under 40 years old have the lowest fatality rates. The health ministry says this year’s results are similar to previous years, where older people are more likely to die from the virus.

In addition to the 72 confirmed COVID deaths, 10 coincidental deaths were recorded, so far this year, meaning the patient had COVID but died due to other underlying illnesses. Sixteen deaths were also placed under investigation as of August 29.

Hospitalisation rates

Hospitalisation rates for patients with severe COVID-19 infection are low, according to the health ministry, which said patients are showing signs of improvement.

The report stated that as of 8 p.m. on August 21, 10 patients were moderately ill, with two patients recorded as severely ill and no patient critically ill. However, within a week, there was a decline in the numbers. By August 28, there were five patients moderately ill, no patients severely ill, and no patients critically ill.

Total bed occupancy is 11.6 per cent, with 650 beds available for possible COVID patients islandwide. Hospitalisation rates have also decreased across the island.