MDOC confirms deceased inmate at Parchman tested positive for COVID19
The MDOC confirmed in a Monday night release that an inmate housed at the Mississippi State Penitentiary at Parchman tested positive for COVID-19.
The unidentified inmate, who had underlying conditions, was tested after he started exhibiting symptoms and was then put into medical insolation.
He later died and the positive test result came back after his death.
“We are committed to protecting the health and well-being of all within our system,” interim MDOC Commissioner Tommy Taylor said.
“Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, our facilities have been under quarantine with restricted transfers, no visitations other than attorneys, and daily screening of facility staff. With this first positive case, we have further isolated all the affected areas and increased screenings for all the inmates who came in contact with the individual. Inmates who came in close contact with the positive individual have been provided with masks.”
The department is continuing to emphasize recommended guidelines for hygiene and social distancing from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and MSDH, the release said.
Inmates in the enhanced quarantined locations will also be monitored twice a day for any signs or symptoms of the virus, and all frequently touched areas, such as workstations, countertops, doorknobs, light switches, handrails and computer keyboards are being sanitized regularly.
