Pandemic death toll surpasses 6 million

The official global death toll from COVID-19 surpassed 6 million on Monday, according to Johns Hopkins University. 

The grim milestone comes as the pandemic enters its third year and as cities and states across the country loosen COVID-19 measures such as mask mandates and proof-of-vaccination requirements. 

While 6 million deaths represents the official toll, it's likely an undercount due to poor record-keeping and a lack of testing in many parts of the world. It also does not include those who died of other, preventable conditions but weren't able to receive treatment because hospitals were full.