NewsCovering Colorado

Actions

Nearly 700 inmates at El Paso County Jail test positive for COVID-19

Posted at 6:33 PM, Nov 03, 2020
and last updated 2020-11-03 20:33:08-05

EL PASO COUNTY — The El Paso County Sheriff's Office announced Tuesday that the El Paso County Jail has implemented very restrictive housing measures in the jail complex due to a rampant outbreak of COVID-19.

According to the EPCSO, on November 1, 2020, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) deployed a rapid response team comprised of Colorado National Guard soldiers to facilitate widespread testing of inmates at the El Paso County Jail.

1,028 samples were collected on that day.

As of Tuesday, Nov. 3, 693 inmates have tested positive for COVID-19.

The Sheriff's Office also said that 62 Sheriff’s Office staff members have tested positive for the virus since the pandemic began.

According to the EPCSO, to combat the rampant spread of COVID-19, the Sheriff’s Office has implemented some very restrictive housing measures. Test results are used to implement appropriate isolation and cohort recommendations quickly.

At this point in time, there have been no inmates who have had to be hospitalized. They are all being treated in the facility by the EPCSO's medical provider, WellPath.