Main content

Covid-19 fatality rate

The question of just how dangerous Covid-19 really is, could have huge implications for lifting lockdowns around the world. So why is it so hard to calculate?

The question of just how dangerous Covid-19 really is, is absolutely crucial. If a large number of those who are infected go on to die, there could be dreadful consequences if we relaxed the lockdowns that have been imposed across much of the world. If the number is smaller, for many countries the worst might already be behind us.

But the frustrating thing is: we’re still not sure. So how can we work this crucial number out?

(An Indian health official inside a COVID-19 mobile testing van uses a nasal swab to collect a sample from a man in New Delhi, India. Photo credit: Yawar Nazir/Getty Images)

Available now

9 minutes

Last on

Mon 11 May 2020 15:50GMT

Broadcasts

  • Sat 9 May 2020 17:50GMT
  • Sun 10 May 2020 05:50GMT
  • Mon 11 May 2020 08:50GMT
  • Mon 11 May 2020 12:50GMT
  • Mon 11 May 2020 15:50GMT

Download this programme

Download this programme

Subscribe to this programme or download individual episodes.