Measures related to the containment of Coronavirus have exposed a flaw in the government data system, with people who have died receiving a letter telling them to stay at home.

Relatives of these deceased people have contacted The Malta Independent to express their dismay that the data in possession of the government is outdated to such an extent that people who have been dead for years are still considered to be alive.

There have been instances where the letter was addressed to persons who died 20, 30 years ago.

Over the past days, letters have been issued from the Health Ministry to people aged 65 and over, telling them that for their own benefit and for the sake of public health they should stay at home.

The letter, signed by Dr Denis Vella Baldacchino, chief medical officer, and Prof. Charmaine Gauci, Superintendent Public Health, informs the addressee that the provision of health care and treatment “you need is our priority”. It adds that measures are being taken to contain this disease which, from “international evidence”, badly affects persons who are older than 65 and others who have chronic medical conditions.

“The National Health Service identifies you as someone at higher risk for more serious complications from COVID-19 infection,” the letter says. “It is imperative for you to stay at home at all times and avoid all face-to-face contact with other persons not in your household, except for health care workers where necessary.”

The relatives of deceased people who received this letter told The Malta Independent that the government should have been more careful in this exercise.