YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) — Public health officials throughout the state have resigned or been fired in recent weeks as coronavirus case counts reach record highs.Experts say many in the profession are facing mounting political pressure and exhaustion from dealing with the pandemic.The Yakima Herald-Republic reports that vacancies for health officials are growing, with spots open in Yakima, Walla Walla, Spokane, Whatcom, Lewis, Mason, Chelan-Douglas and Okanogan counties.Spokane County’Health Officer Dr. Bob Lutz was fired in early November. Lutz released a statement saying he believes his termination was politically motivated in retaliation for unpopular COVID-19 decisions.