Geneva, Feb 26 (IANS): At least 67,300 people passed away in Switzerland last year, up from 63,900 in 2014, the Swiss Federal Statistical Office (FSO) reported.

Representing the highest number of deaths since 1918 when the Spanish influenza pandemic hit the global community, authorities on Thursday said the flu season at the beginning of the year combined with an exceptionally hot summer contributed to an increase in deaths in the confederation.

Statistics reveal that over 65 year olds were particularly affected, with this vulnerable age group recording a six percent increase in deaths compared to 2014.

Figures also show that women (5.6 percent increase of deaths) were more affected by their male counterparts (plus 4.7 percent).

FSO reported that similar trends were witnessed in other European countries including France, Italy, Germany and England.

While last year was marked by a sharp increase in the number of deaths, the statistical office revealed that the number of births decreased last year, reaching 84,800 compared to 85,200 two years ago.