Winter deaths down 10% from 30-year high, statistics show

There was a 10% fall in the number of people who died during the last winter, figures show.

The National Records of Scotland (NRS) registered 21,983 deaths between December 2023 and March 2024.

However the previous winter’s number had been the highest in 30 years.

For the latest year, the seasonal increase was 1,796 deaths.

Phillipa Haxton of NRS said: “Whilst these new figures are lower than the previous winter, the number of winter deaths has generally been increasing over the last decade.

“We know that Scotland’s population is ageing and that older age groups are affected most by the seasonal increase in mortality in winter.

“For people aged 85 and over there were 11% more deaths over the winter period compared to the non-winter months.

“This compares to 7% for those aged under 65.

“Winter deaths are more common among females who tend to live longer.”

A Scottish Government spokesman said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with all those who have lost a loved one.

“While seasonal variations in winter mortality fluctuate year on year, Scotland’s communities experience health, quality of life and even life expectancy differently across our society.

“We continue to work with partners to understand what is needed at a national and regional level to support local, preventative action to drive improvements in population health.”

The spokesman added: “Getting vaccinated is the safest and most effective way to protect yourself against flu.”