Bartow Jail Quarantined After More Than 30 Inmates Get COVID-19

CARTERSVILLE, GA — The entire population of the Bartow County Jail was quarantined Wednesday because of a COVID-19 outbreak, according to a statement released via social media.

“Even though these that have tested positive have been largely asymptomatic (not having bad symptoms like low oxygen levels, etc.) we think it is prudent to quarantine to prevent the further spread,” Bartow County Sheriff Clark Millsap said in the statement.

A spokesperson for the Northwest Georgia Public Health District told The Rome News-Tribune that more than 30 inmates at the jail are infected.

"We've been in discussions with jail officials and they have been following the recommended guidelines," health district spokesperson Logan Boss said to the Rome newspaper. He added that they expected more cases.

Until the outbreak is under control, visitation with inmates will be limited to video, phone calls or emails.

"Please do not call and ask if your relative or loved one has tested positive," Millsap added. "Due to HIPPA regulations we cannot release this information to you. If the inmate tests positive they will be told the results of their test and they can share it with you."

Millsap emphasized in Wednesday’s statement that inmates receive medical care “that far exceeds what most of them receive” outside the jail.

“My jail staff and I took an oath, to protect and serve,” Millsap said. “This includes people who are incarcerated as well.”

Jails are the second most likely place for COVID-19 outbreaks, according to Boss. The most likely place for outbreaks is nursing homes and long-term care facilities, with schools in third place.

As of Tuesday afternoon, Bartow reported 3,178 positive tests for COVID-19 throughout the county, ranking it 23rd among 159 Georgia counties. The county has reported 91 deaths so far from COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus.