On October 20, 2020, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published an early release of the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. As of October 15, 216,025 deaths from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported in the United States; however, this might underestimate the total impact of the pandemic on mortality.

Overall, an estimated 299,028 excess deaths* occurred from late January through October 3, 2020, with 198,081 (66%) excess deaths attributed to COVID-19. The largest percentage increases were among adults aged 25-44 years and among Hispanic or Latino persons. Measures of excess deaths have been used to estimate the impact of public health pandemics or disasters, particularly when there are questions about how accurate deaths are documented that are directly attributable to a given event or cause.

These results inform efforts to prevent mortality directly or indirectly associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, such as efforts to minimize disruptions to health care.  So, nothing shocking, no surprises however the age group most likely to be affected are the “working age” AND the age group less likely to be afraid or heed warnings. Remember, set the example, follow the guidelines and stay well, stay safe and stay tuned!

*Excess deaths are defined as the number of persons who have died from all causes, in excess of the expected number of deaths for a given place and time.