Average deaths per day from COVID-19 dropping in Missouri

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The average number of people dying from COVID-19 in Missouri continues to drop from its mid-month peak.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reported 30 more deaths on Thursday, bringing the statewide total to 661 since the pandemic first hit the state in March. It is the third time this month health officials reported 30 more or deaths in a daily update.

DHSS director Dr. Randall Williams said the deaths reported each day don't necessarily reflect the actual number of people that died in a day. Some delays in reporting deaths, despite a requirement health care officials report deaths within 24 hours, means each day's update may include deaths from days ago.

"I would really encourage you to look at three and seven day trends for those," Williams said.

Missouri currently averages 14 deaths a day, according to the seven-day average of deaths reported in a day. While the average went up today from yesterday, it remains below the 21 deaths per day recorded on May 12. Missouri reported its lowest seven-day average of deaths on May 5 at nine deaths per day.