Literally one of the first links for "covid fatality rate", one from March 31st. They mention 3.5% average estimate from CDC/WHO with 4.8% for highest risk groups. I can't be bothered to find links to original reports and statements though.
Can't really comment about the second part, as I'm not an expert, but while fractions of a percent surely are important from the organizational point of view (e.g. estimating loads in hospitals and such),
I believe that in a broader context the phrase "close to seasonal flu" was used to help people relax and stop PANIC!11
Literally one of the first links for "covid fatality rate", one from March 31st. They mention 3.5% average estimate from CDC/WHO with 4.8% for highest risk groups. I can't be bothered to find links to original reports and statements though.
Can't really comment about the second part, as I'm not an expert, but while fractions of a percent surely are important from the organizational point of view (e.g. estimating loads in hospitals and such), I believe that in a broader context the phrase "close to seasonal flu" was used to help people relax and stop PANIC!11