Covid deaths in South Africa (long, interesting thread)

[Tomconroy]

Link to tweet

[hlthe2b]

1. So, they have not confirmed most COVID-19 related deaths but it shows in excess

Much like the politically-filtered FL data and elsewhere for those with a motivation to downplay (albeit I don't think that is the reason for this data issue in S. Africa, but rather lack of widespread testing in general)

[Hugin]

2. The diminishing excess could be attributed to...

The fact the previous waves decimated the most vulnerable populations.

Therefore the current excess wave is among the less vulnerable.

[hlthe2b]

5. Of course.

[Tomconroy]

3. Ridhwaan makes the point that it is a mistake to atribute

All excess deaths to Covid.

[hlthe2b]

4. Of course, that is a given. Well conducted studies absolutely adjust for competing COD

and their trends as well as a percentage of the 'unknowables/unattributables' that may reflect other unrecognized patterns of disease or pathogens. That hardly argues against COVID-19 being responsible for the majority of those excess deaths.

[Tomconroy]

6. Some are attributable to the effects of Covid isolation.

[hlthe2b]

7. Lack of medical care for long-standing health issues is indirectly a COVID-attributable death.

Most studies would not include them, but they are an indirect outcome.

[JCMach1]

9. $$$ for testing and also treating underlying conditions

You literally see people who are undiagnosed dropping dead.

[JCMach1]

8. Testing is also NOT FREE in many countries. Covid is currently everywhere in Kenya

But just about 1200 a day only are testing.

Most are just happy they are vaccinated and cross their fingers.

A 38 you next door to my family's house was found dead on their couch with their laptop and a cup of tea while I was there.

So yes, lots of excess mortality that's not explained.