As America edges towards possible lock-down, scientists are wondering why the Covid death rate in Germany is lower than average. South Korea is also relatively better off because most deaths occur in younger people. However, in the case of Germany the majority are middle-aged, so why is the death rate hovering at only around 4%.
Several Theories Why the Covid Death Rate in Germany Is Lower
Both South Korea and Germany have been aggressively testing their populations from the beginning of the outbreak. This may have identified people not ill enough to need medical attention according to Kent Sepkowitz posting at CNN. This dilutes the test pool with otherwise healthy people likely to survive, resulting a statistically lower death rate.
Many of the early German cases were older people returning from ski holidays in other countries where Covid-19 was just emerging. Therefore they were presumably healthier sportspeople than their average peer group, meaning their death rate was less. This could be why the Covid death rate in Germany is lower. However, Kent Sepkowitz says German authorities anxiously expect this phenomenon to return to normal.
Longevity and Quality of Medical Attention May Also Be Factors
The average German lifespan is two years shorter than Italy, Spain, and France. In fact it ranks 27th in the world, which is surprising for such an advanced society. However, the clincher may be it has 13.2 nurses per 1,000 people. This is significantly far ahead of the worst affected countries, and reflects a nation that knows the value of nurses.
Kent Sepkowitz says the Covid-19 virus will continue to reveal the strengths and weaknesses of health systems around our planet. We now understand why the Covid death rate in Germany is lower. The challenge, as we emerge from the pandemic will be delivering the same standard of healthcare to large populations in less fortunate societies.
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