The World Health Organization (WHO) presented its 2026 global health statistics report this Wednesday in Geneva, revealing that COVID-19 deaths reached 22.1 million worldwide. This figure triples the seven million officially reported to date, highlighting severe underreporting in health surveillance systems.
Methodology behind estimated COVID-19 deaths
WHO experts calculated these COVID-19 deaths through excess mortality analysis, comparing total deaths during the pandemic with pre-2020 averages. Factors such as hospital collapses, lack of testing, and indirect deaths due to the interruption of medical services influenced the discrepancy. In Latin America, underreporting exceeded 50% in countries like Brazil and Mexico, according to data corroborated by independent studies last year.
Global impact and lessons from COVID-19 deaths
Regions most affected by underreporting
South Asia and Africa reported the highest discrepancies, with India estimating two million additional deaths and sub-Saharan Africa close to three million. In the Dominican Republic, local figures indicate about 4,000 official COVID-19 deaths, but projections aligned with the WHO suggest up to 10,000, adjusted for excess mortality in 2021-2022. WHO Emergencies Director Mike Ryan stressed: “These real numbers urge strengthening data systems for future crises.”
- 22.1 million: Total estimated COVID-19 deaths.
- 7 million: Official figures reported.
- Triples: Exact ratio of the global discrepancy.
Historical context and recommendations
Since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, the WHO has warned about similar underreporting in events like the 1918 Spanish flu. This 2026 report incorporates updated data through 2025, including variants such as Omicron. Authorities recommend investing in digital surveillance and accessible testing. In forums like the World Health Assembly, Dominican delegates advocated for regional alliances against future pandemics.
These revelations about COVID-19 deaths drive urgent reforms in global public health, recalling the need for transparency to prevent similar catastrophes.
