Officer at WTRJ tests positive for virus
Published 11:46 am Friday, May 15, 2020
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The Western Tidewater Regional Jail announced Friday that one of its officers has tested positive for COVID-19.
The officer last worked at the facility in the evening of May 7. He was scheduled to work May 11 and 12 but called in sick because he was not feeling well, according to a press release from the jail.
“After noticing his symptoms were consistent with those of the COVID virus, he went and was tested,” the press release stated. “He received his positive result (Thursday) and immediately notified his supervisor.”
Jail officials notified the health department, which advised the risk for exposure to others was low, the press release stated.
“This was based on the date and time of the onset of the officer’s symptoms, the use of a mask and other personal protective equipment by staff, previous preventative measures in place at the facility, including screening and temperature checks of staff and visitors entering the building, and the limiting of movement within the facility.
Officials were advised to monitor those who had come into contact with the officer and to isolate them and have them tested if they become symptomatic, the release stated.
Staff re-screened and medically assessed all inmates in the area where the officer was assigned. At this point, no inmates are symptomatic.
All staff members who worked closely with the officer will be tested as an extra precaution.
“Our main goal every day is the safety of our staff and inmates,” the release stated.