National Statistical Service and Ministry Present Different Numbers of Coronavirus Deaths

During today’s government meeting, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that the National Statistical Service has released data on deaths caused by coronavirus, which differs from the figures previously published by the Ministry of Health.

"It is significant to investigate to understand what accounts for the discrepancy in death statistics. We need to verify how many of those deaths were due to COVID and how many were for other reasons," the Prime Minister said. He noted that there is a discrepancy of about 700 cases.

Health Minister Anahit Avanesyan also mentioned that there should be no discrepancies by the end of the year. The Prime Minister emphasized that, in any case, the situation should be seriously examined to understand where the oversight occurred.

“Let’s clarify whether there has been any malice by anyone in hiding data. One thing is clear: the Government of Armenia has never had any such intent,” Nikol Pashinyan stated.