COLORADO SPRINGS — Widespread testing targeting COVID-19 was done by the Department of Corrections along with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment following eight inmates testing positive for the virus at their Sterling Correctional Facility, according to a release.
DOC health officials have taken precautionary measures by conducting detailed contract tracing investigations of the coronavirus. The facility has been in Phase III mode operations with inmates enforcing quarantine and social distancing policies since April 14.
"This testing will allow us to better identify, isolate and treat any inmate who is positive for COVID-19 and help to prevent the spread of the virus as much as possible in an environment where social distancing is very difficult,” said Department of Corrections Executive Director Dean Williams. “By conducting this testing and isolating positive inmates, we are working to mitigate the risk of larger numbers of inmates becoming ill and potentially creating an impact on the public health and medical system.”
The DOC said they are prepared to respond should more positive cases arise by being aggressive with testing. Identifying those who may be infected will help contain the spread.
For more information on the DOC's response to the coronavirus, click here
