COVID-19 deaths are those deaths registered in England and Wales in the stated week where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificate.
A doctor can certify the involvement of COVID-19 based on symptoms and clinical findings; a positive test result is not required.
From the website
3. Glossary
Coronavirus (COVID-19) deaths
COVID-19 deaths are those deaths registered in England and Wales in the stated week where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificate.
A doctor can certify the involvement of COVID-19 based on symptoms and clinical findings; a positive test result is not required.
Definitions of COVID-19 for deaths in Scotland and Northern Ireland are similar to England and Wales.