In 2023, Germany reported approximately 1.02 million deaths, marking a 4% decrease compared to the previous year, with December mortality figures notably 7% below the four-year average. These findings, based on a special evaluation by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis), come after years of anticipating a rise in mortality due to an aging population.
The annual mortality figures, which had seen a consistent increase, experienced a decline for the first time since 2019. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated measures were evident in mortality patterns. In January 2023, deaths were 14% higher than the median of the years 2019-2022, attributed to a flu wave and the ongoing impact of the pandemic.
The influence of influenza waves on mortality was observed, with January and March seeing notable increases, while the period from spring to autumn showed relatively stable figures. The December mortality drop of 7% compared to the average of the preceding four years was explained by the unique seasonal pattern seen during the pandemic.
Despite the aging effect and a previous trend of rising mortality, Germany’s 2023 figures indicate a departure from the recent pattern, offering a nuanced perspective on the country’s mortality trends amid the ongoing public health challenges.
https://www.destatis.de/DE/Presse/Pressemitteilungen/2024/01/PD24_011_126.html