Coronavirus: 8 Inmates In Middlesex Jail Test Positive

Middlesex County Jail and House of Correction has eight inmates who tested positive for the new coronavirus. The latest case was announced by the Middlesex County Sheriff's Office on Thursday. On Thursday the sheriff's office reported 21 employees in the jail had tested positive for the virus.

Middlesex Jail's population was reduced by 15 percent in less than four weeks in an effort to slow the virus spread in the facility. The population dropped by over 100 people as some inmates were released or moved to an electronic monitoring system while others being held on bail had cases reviewed through video conference.

The reduction in population led the jail to close multiple housing units.

“In consultation with Dr. Alysse Wurcel – the infectious disease specialist who has been advising us since late February – we decided to temporarily close three dorms including our Housing Unit for Military Veterans,” said Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian. “The movement of individuals from these units to areas where we can further space individuals out, allows us to enhance social distancing practices.”

The jail has also asked symptomatic staff to stay home and not return to work until cleared by a doctor. Thermometers, germicidal cloths and gloves have been placed throughout the facility for staff to monitor if they show symptoms. MSO said the facility has also been thoroughly cleaned.

Inmates have been receiving four free phone calls of up to 20 minutes each every week.