OCSD Modifies Jail Protocols Due To Coronavirus

ORANGE COUNTY, CA — Based on new coronavirus directives handed down by federal, state and local authorities, the Orange County Sheriff's Department announced Friday it has implemented protocols designed to protect the health and safety of the public, personnel and those in custody at jail facilities.

"The Orange County community is facing an unprecedented challenge, and the sheriff's department has worked effectively and expediently in our response across divisions," said Orange County Sheriff-Coroner Don Barnes.

"The custody setting presents unique and complex dynamics that we proactively are addressing to protect those in our custody and who work in our facilities," Barnes said. "We also are making accommodations to preserve aspects proven to be important for rehabilitation."

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To date, no inmates have been diagnosed with COVID-19, Barnes said.

The following protocols have been introduced:

— Enhanced screening for jail intake in partnership with the Orange County Healthcare Agency.

— Temperature screening for every person who enters our jail facilities, including inmates, sheriff's personnel and outside agencies booking an inmate.

— If an inmate shows flu-like symptoms, the inmate will be rehoused and isolated from the general population. The Health Care Agency's Correctional Health Services staff will monitor the inmate and will determine if a COVID-19 test is necessary. Once the inmate is not symptomatic, they will be cleared for rehousing.

— Ensure all inmates are receiving adequate cleaning materials for housing areas and soap for personal hygiene.

— Temporarily suspended visitation, with the exception of attorney, bail bonds and law enforcement visits.

— Temporarily suspended programming conducted by outside volunteers and contractors. The sheriff's department currently is looking into ways to enhance programming, including religious services, while following the directives of healthcare experts. Programs administered by sheriff's department personnel are ongoing.

— All contractor access has been suspended, with the exception of specific projects vital to addressing the COVID-19 issue.

— Each inmate will receive two, free five-minute calls per week.

— Inmates unable to purchase stationary supplies will be provided pre- stamped envelopes, paper and pencils.

For the latest updates on COVID-19 in Orange County and additional health and safety information, visit www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus.

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Follow CDC's recommendations for using a facemask.
  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
  • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

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City News Service