Tragedy of 100,000 COVID-19 deaths

26 January 2021


Commenting on the official Office for National Statistics figures on the number of deaths registered in the UK with COVID-19 on the death certificate – reaching the 100,000 milestone, NHS Providers chief executive Chris Hopson said:

"It is a tragedy that we have now seen more than 100,000 deaths from COVID-19. This is a dreadful milestone to have reached, and behind each death will be a story of sorrow and grief.

"We pay tribute, once again, to NHS and care staff who have done everything they can throughout the long months of this pandemic to avoid each one of these deaths and reduce patient harm. We thank them for their commitment, professionalism and compassion.

"We won't know the true impact of COVID-19 for a long time to come because of its long-term effects – but, as well as the high death rate, it's particularly concerning that this virus has widened health inequalities and affected Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities disproportionately.

Sadly, the virus has the potential to destroy many more lives. This is why we must all remain vigilant and meticulously follow the rules restricting social contact, however onerous they may seem.

"Sadly, the virus has the potential to destroy many more lives. This is why we must all remain vigilant and meticulously follow the rules restricting social contact, however onerous they may seem.

"The vaccine offers hope for the future. This is a key phase in the fight to end COVID-19 but we must stay the course until the end is truly in sight."