High number of weekend Covid deaths linked to hospital staffing levels

the average number of global deaths from coronavirus was 6% higher on weekends compared to weekdays. File Picture.

Global Covid-19 deaths were higher on weekends than on weekdays on average during the pandemic, with researchers suggesting that shortfalls in weekend hospital staff and capacity may have played a role.

Researchers accepted that reporting delays could be a contributing factor, but said shortfalls in clinical staffing, capacity, and experience at weekends are also likely to have played a role.