As of early 2025, the confirmed number of deaths directly attributed to COVID-19 worldwide is approximately 7 million people. Specifically, there have been about 7,057,132 confirmed COVID-induced deaths reported by April 1, 2025
. Earlier figures from April 2024 also indicated around 7,010,681 deaths
. However, estimates that include excess deaths likely caused by the pandemic suggest the true death toll could be significantly higher, ranging between 19.1 million and 36 million deaths globally
. This range accounts for deaths indirectly related to COVID-19 and underreporting. In summary:
- Confirmed COVID-19 deaths: about 7 million as of early 2025
- Estimated total pandemic-related deaths (including excess deaths): between 19 and 36 million
This makes COVID-19 one of the deadliest pandemics in recent history, with a global impact comparable to major historical events like the Spanish flu
