Coronavirus death toll in France surges to nearly 14,400

The total death tally in France from the coronavirus has surged to nearly 14,400.

However, for the fourth day in a row, slightly fewer people were admitted into intensive care — 35 fewer — giving health officials a hope for good news.

According to statistics issued by the French Ministry of Health, the country is reaching a “very high plateau”, reflecting initial signs that nearly four weeks of confinement and the “drastic reduction in contacts” are making an effect.

Since March 1, hospitals and nursing homes in France have witnessed 14,393 deaths.

Of the 31,836 people currently hospitalised for the virus, more than 1,600 were admitted during the past 24 hours, the French Ministry of Health said in its statement.

Yet, with over 6,800 patients being received treatment in intensive care units on Sunday, that was 35 people fewer than a day earlier, sending a ray of hope for overworked healthcare workers and authorities seeking to see small signs of change.

Since the pandemic emerged in France, more than 95,400 people have been infected.