Department of Health and Human Services News and Reporting Coverage | WRAL

FDA officials investigate suspected case of infant botulism in NC linked to a nationwide baby formula recall

On Monday, health officials said they are investigating a suspected case of infant botulism that is linked to a nationwide baby formula recall impacting infants in 10 other states.

NC parents urged to check pantries amid infant formula recall linked to botulism risk

The FDA is investigating a potential infant botulism case in North Carolina tied to ByHeart Inc. infant formula, already linked to a multi-state outbreak. Two lots have been recalled, urging parents to check their supplies.

Timeliness of NC food-stamp payments dipped below federal standards, state audit says

About $83 million in North Carolina food-stamp benefits were distributed late between 2021 and 2024 -- less than 1% of the total payout during that period. Wake, Cumberland and Edgecombe counties were among the worst performers.

WRAL News staff

More than $6.5B in medical debt relieved through NC program. Stein calls it 'life changing news'

The state's Medical Debt Relief Program has relieved debts for more than 2.5 million North Carolinians, totaling billions of dollars. Officials say it's only the start.

Will Doran, WRAL News

State reports season's first flu death out of western North Carolina

On Wednesday, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services said an adult in western North Carolina died from flu complications during the first week of October.

NC becomes latest state to make COVID vaccines available without prescription

Gov. Josh Stein and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services have worked to issue standing orders to make access to COVID-19 vaccines available to North Carolinians without a prescription.

Doctor's prescription required for covid vaccine at pharmacies

"We hear you." That is the message from Durham health officials about access to COVID-19 vaccines. Many viewers have emailed WRAL News quite a few questions about the vaccine availability. WRAL's Ashley Rowe tries to get some of those answered.

New challenges arise for COVID-19 vaccine access in NC as officials await ACIP recommendations

As North Carolina grapples with new hurdles in COVID-19 vaccine distribution, officials await crucial ACIP guidelines. Officials say the decision could impact vaccine availability and raises concerns among health officials and residents about future access and rollout strategies.

Duke Health event in Durham responds to rising need for caregiver support in NC

With over 100 vendors and immersive experiences, the sold-out event addresses the emotional and financial challenges faced by caregivers, providing tools to navigate their demanding roles.

NC ramps up efforts to collect $101K owed by nonprofit run by wife of former lieutenant governor

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services says a nonprofit run by Yolanda Hill, the wife of former Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, billed taxpayers for tens of thousands of dollars in questionable payments.

Paul Specht and Will Doran, WRAL state government reporters

'Flesh-eating' bacteria sends Outer Banks man to ICU as NC Vibrio cases near 60

Flesh-eating bacteria cases are climbing across the Southeast. North Carolina has tallied 59 Vibrio infections and one death this year, while Florida and Louisiana have recorded eight fatalities.

NCDHHS says the first West Nile virus case of the year found in Duram County

North Carolina has its first case of West Nile virus for 2025, as reported by the Department of Health and Human Services. The case involves a resident of Durham County, though details about the individual's identity have not been disclosed.

First West Nile virus case of 2025 detected in Durham County, health officials confirm

North Carolina has confirmed its first case of West Nile virus for 2025, as reported by the Department of Health and Human Services. The case involves a resident of Durham County, though details about the individual's identity have not been disclosed.

North Carolina launches free virtual therapy for justice-impacted teens through Talkspace

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has partnered with Talkspace to provide free virtual mental health therapy to teenagers aged 13-17 impacted by the justice system.

North Carolina commits to LGBTQ+ mental health support as 988 line ends specialized services

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has discontinued its specialized support for LGBTQ+ youth, eliminating the "Press 3" option, following the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' decision to cut federal funding for these services.

Local sickle cell researcher calls NIH grant termination "racist"

A researcher at Duke University, speaks out after her NIH grant for sickle cell research was terminated. The $750,000 funding cut, justified by NIH as a move against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, has sparked significant controversy.

Sickle cell researcher fights back, calling NIH grant termination "racist" and "discriminatory"

A researcher at Duke University, speaks out after her NIH grant for sickle cell research was terminated. The $750,000 funding cut, justified by NIH as a move against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, has sparked significant controversy.

Gov. Josh Stein signs foster care reform bill into law with bipartisan support

Titled the Fostering Care in NC Act, the law gives the state Department of Health and Human Services more power to hold county-run social services departments accountable.

How they voted: NC congressional votes for the week ending June 19

A look at how North Carolina members of Congress voted during the previous week.

Targeted News Service

NC launches unified digital system for foster child tracking after WRAL documentary exposes gaps

North Carolina has officially launched PATH NC, a new statewide digital system that unifies data tracking for foster children across all 100 counties.

NC lawmakers send sweeping foster care reforms to governor

House Bill 612, which sponsors call the Fostering Care in NC Act, would give the state more power to hold county-run social services departments accountable.

WRAL News staff

Wastewater offers clues amid growing measles outbreaks

Measles cases continue to climb, and the virus is closing in on North Carolina. It's led researchers to launch a new tool to help communities spot outbreaks early - by testing what we flush.

Toilets could reveal early warning signs of a measles outbreak

Wastewater monitoring, a technique that gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, may now offer a crucial early warning system for measles outbreaks across the U.S.

Health experts highlight Black maternal health disparities during awareness month

During Maternal Health Awareness Month, the Johnston County chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, highlights the alarming disparities in Black maternal health.

Local organizations are working to raise awareness of Black Maternal Health

A Johnston County organization hosted a discussion sharing information and resources about Black Maternal Health as a part of the weeklong event "fueling minds and uplifting the community."