(PRESS RELEASE)…In response to the video circulating social media by an inmate and resident of the Tafuna Correctional Facility (TCF), the COVID-19 Task Force provides the following update to the media and general public from the following COVID-19 emergency response departments:
LBJ Tropical Medical Center.
At Wednesday’s EOC briefing, Dr. Ledua provided an update that the patient was in fact tested at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center with symptoms. The resident was evaluated to determine if treatment was needed.
Various factors are considered during a physicians’ assessments for therapeutic treatment including their age, whether they smoke, and their medical history or comorbidities. Results from the assessments, help the doctor to determine if the patient will be referred for therapeutic treatment. Not everyone who tests positive will need treatment.
The patient was further advised to return to the hospital if his symptoms did not improve over the next 72 hours.
Department of Health
On Wednesday, March 23rd, the Department of Health conducted COVID-19 testing at the TCF, where there are currently a total of 296 inmates. According to DOH Physician Dr. Losana, a total of 117 were tested — including DOH staff — and 88 were positive. 29 tested negative including 7 DOH staff. 6 inmates were transferred to Tafuna for treatment yesterday. On Thursday, March 24th the Department of Health completed its testing of remaining inmates. Out of a total of 174 tested, 138 tested positive and 38 were assessed for treatment.
The Departments of Health, Homeland Security, and Public safety are continuously implementing mitigation measures to prevent further spread of COVID-19 in TCF. This includes, designating separate spaces for those who test positive. Once an inmate tests positive at the TCF, they are immediately separated from those who do not have COVID-19. Inmates that develop symptoms are assessed, if they are in need of therapeutic treatments and can be transferred to the Tafuna Health Center to receive them in a secured area.
The Department of Health and the COVID-19 Task Force will continue to thoroughly assess the situation at TCF, and do what is necessary to take care of this population. The community is continually encouraged to ensure that they are vaccinated, boosted, and get tested so that proper care is provided in a timely manner.
