COVID-19 deaths in US surpass 200,000

The total number of  deaths in the US from the coronavirus pandemic passed 200,000 today, the highest death toll in the world. 

The country has recorded nearly 6.8 million confirmed cases of  COVID-19 since the virus was first identified.

According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of  Washington, a surge in new infections in the autumn and winter could result in a total of  415,000 American deaths by January.

As colder weather forces people indoors, it is feared that this could spur a new wave of  infections unless people maintain their vigilance to stop the spread.

Experts continue to implore people to wear face masks to limit aerosol spread of the virus, as well as continued adherence to a hand washing regimen.

They also advise that everyone get their annual flu vaccination.