CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. – Four more inmates at the Chesterfield County jail has tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total to 8.
CBS 6 reported the first four cases over the weekend.
The Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office was notified that four additional inmates had tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday evening, June 8.
Three of the inmates were exhibiting symptoms and the fourth was asymptomatic, according to a press release from the jail.
“Of the three symptomatic inmates one was a new committal who, during screening, was found to have symptoms of COVID-19 and was immediately placed in medical isolation with no contact with other inmates,” a spokesperson for the jail wrote.
“The other two were in a pod of 16 men and when they reported some symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and were immediately pulled out and placed in medical isolation. As a result of their positive tests now, and out of an abundance of caution, the other 14 men who were in the same pod earlier will be tested even though none of them are exhibiting any signs or symptoms.”
There has now been a total of 8 positive cases in the Chesterfield County Jail since Friday, June 5th when the first positive cases were reported.
The ages of the positive inmates range from 23 to 47.
Officials say the Chesterfield Sheriff’s Office will not release additional information about the inmates due to medical privacy laws.
To track positive inmate and employee COVID-19 cases at Chesterfield County Jail, click here.
COVID-19 Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.Avoid non-essential travel.