North Carolina is reporting record numbers of influenza deaths during the season of the respiratory virus, health officials said this week.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services said in a press release Wednesday that more than 500 flu-related deaths were reported during the 2024-25 respiratory virus season. This figure marks the highest total statewide total since reporting began in 2009.
“These figures will be even higher without the commitment of the NCDHHS department, providing flu education, distributing vaccines and supporting treatment and prevention efforts in all 100 counties,” North Carolina’s Secretary of Health and Human Services Devdutta Sangvai said in a statement.
“Their work saves lives every day,” he added.
The state’s flu-related deaths were roughly equivalent to those caused by Covid-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
CDC recording Around 600 Covid-19 deaths occurred in the state between October and April.
Health officials warned that federal funding cuts to the state “affecting the ability to protect North Carolinians’ health and well-being, leaving the nation vulnerable to public health threats.”
In recent weeks, the Elon Musk-led government efficiency office has been cutting sharply through funding for federal workforce and scientific research across the country.
Doge representatives did not immediately respond to NBC News’ requests for comment.
Fundraising cuts have eliminated more than 80 jobs and lost at least $100 million in the sector, according to a press release.
“Despite these challenges, trust in public health remains high,” the release said.
“This trust is a clear signal that public health is more important than ever,” said Dr. Kelly Kimple, interim state health director and NCDHHS chief medical officer, Dr. Kelly Kimple, in a press release. “We are extremely proud of the dedication and impact of our public health teams across the state.”
“Now is the time to match that trust with stable, long-term investments in the public health workforce and infrastructure, so we can continue to protect our communities for years to come,” Kim Hull added.
