Health officials said this week that North Carolina reported a record number of influenza deaths in the respiratory virus season this week.
More than 500 influenza-related deaths have been reported to the respiratory virus season 2024-25. The number is the highest state level since it started reports in 2009.
“These numbers will be higher without the dedication of the NCDHHS health department for public health teams and the local Ministry of Health teams that provide influenza education, vaccine distribution, and support treatment and prevention efforts in all hundred provinces,” North Carolina Minister of North Carolina, Davdota Sangvay said in a statement.
“Their work saves lives every day,” he added.
The influenza-related deaths in the state were almost equally with the deaths caused by Covid-19, which are known to be a more severe influenza disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Disease Control Center Record Nearly 600 Covid-19 deaths in the state between October and April.
Health officials have warned that federal financing discounts to the country “affected the ability to protect the health and welfare of North Caroline, leaving the state vulnerable to public health threats.”
In recent weeks, the Ministry of Government Efficiency led by Elon Musk has made sharp discounts for the federal workforce and financing for scientific research throughout the country.
Doge actor did not immediately respond to the NBC News request for comment.
Funding discounts eliminated more than 80 jobs and a loss of at least $ 100 million for management, according to the press statement.
“Despite these challenges, public health confidence is still high,” the statement said.
“This confidence is a clear indication that public health is more important than ever,” said Dr. Kelly Kimbel, Director of Temporary State Health and Senior Medical officials at NCDHHS in a press release. “I am incredibly proud of the dedication and influence of our public health teams throughout the state.”
“It is now time to match this confidence with a stable and long -term investment in the workforce in the field of public health and infrastructure so that we can continue to protect our societies for years to come.”