Editor’s note: Cases of COVID-19 at the Federal Penitentiary in Thomson, IL, have spiked. As of August 20, 30 staff and 18 inmtes had tested postive. This is up from the August 17 count of 20 staff and two inmates.
The United States Penitentiary (USP) Thomson’s highest priority remains ensuring the safety of staff and inmates, while decreasing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. To enhance mitigation efforts, USP Thomson began COVID-19 testing for 100% of the inmate population the week of Sunday, August 16. 2020. USP Thomson is uses the Abbott Rapid Test machine to conduct the tests. Testing 100% of the inmate population may significantly increase the number of COVID-19 positive cases reflected, on the Bureau of Prisons public website.
This robust testing will assist USP Thomson in slowing transmission, by identifying those asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic individuals who may be carrying the virus unknowingly and separating them from those who test negative..This should prevent these COVID-19 positive inmates from transmitting the virus to others, which is a key factor to mitigating the spread of COVID-19. An additional benefit and expected outcome of this proactive strategy is to shorten the overall quarantine period during the span of the pandemic.
Social distancing inside a prison is difficult to achieve, especially with an open dormitory style setting. USP Thomson tackled this challenge by opening additional housing unit ranges, to create space and serve as quarantine locations.
Another measure employed to stem the spread of the virus is restricting inmate use of telephone and email stations. This action was taken to prevent transmission of the virus by multiple people touching keyboards and telephone handsets. USP Thomson will continue to evaluate this approach and will make these communication avenues available as soon as possible. The institution recognizes how important it is to maintain family contact during these uncertain times. So, inmate friends and families are strongly encouraged to continue corresponding by mailing letters through the U. S. Postal Service.
USP Thomson has an ample supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE.) Staff are provided the appropriate level of PPE when entering isolation/quarantine units and during enhanced staff screenings (i.e., mask, gown, eye protection, gloves.) Cloth face-coverings were issued to all staff and inmates. CDC informational flyers on hand washing, coughing/sneezing into a sleeve or tissue, and no physical contact are posted throughout the prison.
Staff follow a comprehensive management approach to infection prevention and control. This includes
- educating staff and inmates on cleaning/disinfecting and hygiene practices
- furnishing soap and cleaning supplies in common areas, restrooms, work sites, and inmate cells
- screening 100% of all personnel entering the institutions, including symptoms and temperature checks; testing inmates when clinically indicated, following isolation and quarantine protocols in accordance with CDC and public health directives, and providing clinical care for confirmed and suspected cases.
To protect the public, all inmates releasing to the community are quarantined for 14 days and screened prior to their scheduled departure. If Court Orders require immediate release, inmates are screened prior to release.
USP Thomson continues to be deeply concerned for the health and welfare of inmates entrusted to our care and for the staff who live in the surrounding communities. Our staff are vested in ensuring public safety….[They] continue to diligently and safely carry out their responsibilities.
The Bureau of Prisons will continue daily updates and information on actions related to COVID-19 at www.bop.gov/coronavirus/index.jsp.
Additional information about the Bureau of Prisons can be found at www.bop.gov.