This archive report was first published on 6 July 2020.
On Sunday, Chile's Department of Statistics and Health (DEIS) reported a grim milestone: over 10,000 COVID-19 deaths. The figure, compiled weekly, is considered the most accurate for reporting COVID-19 deaths by test results or symptoms.
According to the DEIS report, there were 7,057 deaths confirmed via swab test and 3,102 'probable' deaths diagnosed via symptoms. This contrasts with the official daily report, which showed 6,308 deaths out of 295,532 cases since the first case was detected in Chile four months ago.
Health Ministry epidemiological chief Rafael Araos explained that the daily report's objective is provisional, recommending the use of the DEIS figure instead.
As Chile struggles to contain the virus, President Pinera announced a $1.5 billion aid package aimed at cushioning the blow of the economic crisis on the country's middle class. The package, which still needs Congressional approval, would provide for the delivery of a credit of up to $3,200 over four installments, with a zero interest rate and four years to repay it.
"Chile is a mostly middle class country, which has progressed on the basis of its own merit, effort and work. The middle class knows this and is proud of its achievements. But it also deserves and needs assurances and opportunities for the future," Pinera said when presenting the aid package.
