As a consequence of a temporary halt in federal funds, eleven workers at Columbus Public Health were let go, according to confirmation from the department. Thursday .
The funds that were reduced included those allocated for COVID-19 Enhanced Operations at the CDC. According to a representative, the permanent staff let go were part of the team handling infectious disease investigations.
These workers were intended to remain until the conclusion of this year when the grant money was set to run out, however, we had to release them prematurely because of budget reductions," the spokesperson stated. "This decrease in personnel is especially troubling amid a nationwide measles outbreak, which has included instances in Ohio.
The reductions occur amid multiple measles outbreaks reported nationwide, including one in Ohio. Several instances have been documented. reported in Ashtabula and Knox County .
The representative stated that the department is worried about possible further reductions in federal funding and how this might affect their capability to safeguard the well-being and security of the community members.
"We remain dedicated to our community and will keep striving to safeguard and enhance the well-being of all members," they stated.
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