Fact of the Day

An estimated 31,100 excess winter deaths occurred in 2012/13 - a 29% increase on the previous winter. The Office for National Statistics data, which compares deaths in winter months with averages in other seasons, shows most of the deaths involved people over 75. While excess winter deaths are linked to low temperatures, hypothermia is not the main cause. Experience shows that the majority of such deaths are due to heart disease, stroke and respiratory illness.

Cold weather and flu largely explain the trends. SOYMB would also suggest poverty had a bit to do with it.