Covid-19 and Influenza Mortality Rates at Parity in Denmark
Covid-19 is no longer more serious than influenza in terms of mortality in hospital admissions in Denmark, according to new figures from the Statens Serum Institut. The data from the winter season 2024/25 shows that both diseases have a 10-11% mortality rate within 30 days of hospitalization. The findings emphasize the need to continue offering seasonal vaccination to the elderly and vulnerable against both COVID-19 and influenza.
Key Takeaways:
- The mortality rate for both Covid-19 and influenza is 10-11% within 30 days of hospitalization in Denmark.
- Seasonal vaccination against both Covid-19 and influenza is still important, especially for the elderly and vulnerable.
- The Danish Statens Serum Institut (SSI) recommends continuing to offer seasonal vaccination against both diseases.
- 6,326 people were hospitalized with influenza and 4,562 with COVID-19 during the period from June 8, 2024, to June 1, 2025.
- The risk of dying within 30 days of hospitalization for both diseases is the same at 10-11%.
- Covid-19 is now at the same level as influenza in terms of mortality, with no significant difference between the two diseases.
- Vaccination against both diseases is crucial to prevent severe illness and death, especially among high-risk groups.
Statistics:
- 6,326 hospitalizations with influenza and 4,562 with COVID-19 during the period from June 8, 2024, to June 1, 2025.
- 10-11% mortality rate within 30 days of hospitalization for both Covid-19 and influenza.
- 2024/25 winter season data shows parity between Covid-19 and influenza mortality rates.
Sources:
- Statens Serum Institut (Oct. 30, 2024) - Press Release
- The Lancet Infectious Diseases (Peer-reviewed study)