France records worst daily coronavirus death toll

France recorded its worst daily coronavirus death toll on Monday, exceeding 3,000 for the first time, and army helicopters transported critical patients from the east to hospitals overseas as the country battled to free up space in life-support units.

French health authorities reported 418 new deaths taking the total to 3,024 or an increase of 16 percent, making France the fourth country to cross the 3,000 fatalities threshold after China, Italy, and Spain.

France 24 reports that the daily government tally only accounts for those dying in hospital but authorities say they will very soon be able to compile data on deaths in retirement homes, which is likely to result in a big increase in registered fatalities.

Health agency director Jérôme Salomon told a news conference that the number of cases had risen to 44,550, a rise of 11 percent in 24 hours.

However, the actual number could be much higher as only those deemed at high risk are currently being tested.

Via France 24 / Le Monde / AFP / Reuters 

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