In a recent bi-monthly meeting, Forsyth County officials reviewed critical data on child deaths, emphasizing the need for improved communication and systemic changes to protect vulnerable children. The meeting highlighted the work of a subcommittee that evaluates child death cases, which included representatives from various agencies such as the medical examiner's office, district court, and local law enforcement.

In 2024, the subcommittee reported 59 child deaths from the previous year, with 30 of those involving infants. The causes ranged from congenital abnormalities and illness to unsafe sleep practices and accidents. Notably, 39% of these cases met criteria for further review by the full team, which aims to identify systemic issues that may have contributed to these tragedies.

The discussions underscored the importance of collaboration among agencies to address factors such as lack of communication, inadequate regulations, and the impact of substance abuse during pregnancy. The subcommittee's findings revealed a concerning trend in illnesses leading to child deaths, while unsafe sleep practices showed a decline, indicating that public awareness campaigns may be having a positive effect.

Officials acknowledged the emotional weight of reviewing these cases, stressing the need for ongoing partnerships with community organizations and schools to ensure children's safety. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue addressing these issues through education and support for families, aiming to reduce child mortality rates in the county.

As Forsyth County moves forward, the focus remains on enhancing protective measures for children and fostering a collaborative environment among all stakeholders involved in child welfare.