WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — The number of inmates who have tested positive for COVID-19 at a jail in Wichita has grown to more than 500.
The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office has conducted mass testing of its inmates at the urging of state health officials. As of Friday, 523 inmates have tested positive and 747 negative, KAKE-TV reports.
“As results were received, inmates were separated and housed based on the results of their tests to minimize the spreading of COVID-19,” Lt. Tim Myers said. “Inmates that have reported symptoms of COVID-19 have received treatment from the contracted medical provider. No inmates have required hospitalization because of testing positive for COVID-19.”
Inmates with no symptoms are considered recovered 10 days post-test. Myers estimated that around 400 inmates will be considered recovered by the end of the weekend.
“We are continuing to maintain sanitization standards to take care of our staff and inmates which include issuing extra soap, and having disinfectant available as needed.”
Myers said all staff members have been issued masks, and all inmates have been issued face coverings for the last several months.
