The ADOC is working hard to protect your safety, security, and wellbeing by doing all we can to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our facilities. By now, you’ve probably noticed changes to some procedures within our facilities. While they may impact your normal schedules or routines, I want to assure you that each change is made to protect you.
The Department has developed a full list of preventative measures and policies, but I wanted to share a few important updates:
COVID-19 Testing Updates
- As of April 6, 2020, the ADOC does not have any confirmed cases of COVID-19 among our inmate population.
- Any ADOC staff member who tests positive for COVID-19 or has been determined to have direct, prolonged exposure to an individual confirmed as a COVID-19 positive case will self-quarantine for 14 days.
- We are prepared to handle any inmate cases of the virus and to secure our facilities when the time comes.
Preventative & Protective Measures
- Inmates will continue to receive critical medical, emergency dental, and mental health services.
- Non-emergency medical care has been limited in order to reduce risk of exposure to the virus.
- Inmates at Holman Correctional Facility and Julia Tutwiler Prison for Women have been trained to sew face masks that will be sent to our facilities and provided to inmates and staff.
Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP)
- The Department has developed a plan to study worst-case scenarios related to COVID-19 so that we can do everything in our power to prevent them from ever occurring.
- The ADOC is doing everything possible to protect you and prevent these scenarios from ever occurring. Your health and safety could not be more important to me.
We need your help to slow the spread of COVID-19!
- Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water. Increased soap and sanitizing materials will be made available to facilities across the system.
- Avoid touching your mouth, eyes, or face as much as possible.
- Cover your mouth with your elbow when sneezing or coughing.
- Do not shake hands, high five, or fist bump – avoid physical contact as much as possible.
- Review the posted CDC and ADPH flyers, and follow their health and hygiene recommendations.
Again, please know that we are taking all necessary actions to protect inmates, staff, and the public. We also encourage you to get your flu shot if you have not already – we still are in flu season, in addition to dealing with COVID-19. If you have COVID-19 related questions, refer to your Inmate Education COVID-19 packet provided by ADOC’s Office of Health Services.