Excess deaths in the EU fell in November 2024, increasing by 5.0% over the baseline, compared with 7.0% in October. Cyprus recorded one of the highest rates - 18.0%, worse indicators only in Finland - 18.4%.
This means around 9,700 additional deaths were recorded in the EU, down 22,000 since November 2023, according to Eurostat.
However, there were notable differences between EU member states. Seven countries reported negative excess mortality rates, with Malta leading the way with a rate of 16.1%, followed by Romania (12.3%) and Slovakia (4.9%). In contrast, 20 countries saw an increase in excess mortality. Cyprus recorded one of the highest rates (18%). The Netherlands also recorded a significant increase in excess mortality, up 13.9%.
The week of 8 to 14 November saw the highest weekly rate of excess deaths in the EU, with Cyprus topping the list at 30.8%. Estonia was in second place with 17.6%, and the Netherlands in third with 12.7%.
The total number of excess deaths in the EU in November 2024 was much lower than in the previous year. There were 32,000 additional deaths in the EU in November 2023, in stark contrast to this year.
Although Cyprus had some of the highest weekly excess mortality rates, this was due to various factors including seasonal diseases and health issues. Further trend updates will be published quarterly, with a more comprehensive review expected in mid-2025.
These findings, based on Eurostat data, show continued fluctuations in excess mortality rates in the European Union. Despite the overall decline in November, several countries, including Cyprus, remain seriously affected.
Source: cyprus-mail.com