In its first projections of Covid-19 deaths out to November 1, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington is forecasting more than 200,000 deaths in the United States.
The projected scenario for Mexico is 97,923 deaths, while for Canada the figure is 13,237.
“We can now see the projected trajectory of the epidemic into the fall, and many U.S. states are expected to experience significant increases in cases and deaths in September and October,” said IHME Director Dr. Christopher Murray. “However, as we all have come to recognize, wearing masks can substantially reduce transmission of the virus.”
Murray said mask mandates delay the need for re-imposing closures of businesses and have huge economic benefits. “Moreover, those who refuse masks are putting their lives, their families, their friends, and their communities at risk.”
The IHME’s forecast for the United States shows 208,255 deaths (with a range of 186,087 to 244,541) by November 1. Those numbers drop to 162,808 (157,217 to 171,193), if at least 95 percent of people wear masks in public, the institute said.
As of July 15, the Covid-19 related death toll in the United States stood at 140,951 and 36,906 in Mexico. Canada’s total was 8,825.