MOHAVE COUNTY – Mohave County detailed a COVID-19 outbreak in the Adult Detention Facility in Kingman and its call for medical volunteers in separate press releases issued Wednesday morning. Sheriff’s office spokeswoman Anita Mortensen said 18 more inmates have tested positive for the coronavirus since Monday.
“Several inmates began reporting classic COVID-like symptoms such as body aches, headaches and loss of taste and smell,” Mortensen said. “All 18 positive inmates were moved to two different housing units and housed under cohort quarantine protocols.”
Captain Don Bischoff said the jail population has not been overtly alarmed about this week’s infection wave.
“I met with the impacted inmates fielding questions and openly discussed the positive test results, what steps jail staff had immediately implemented, and the steps being taken,” Bischoff said. “We will keep them informed as we continue to handle the outbreak.”
Bischoff said more than 1,100 inmates have been tested since last May. He said only 22 inmates and 11 staff members tested positive prior to Monday.
Mohave County Communications Director Roger Galloway said the Department of Public Health (MCDPH) is recruiting volunteers to assist with upcoming vaccination efforts when the campaign begins targeting larger portions of the public.
“MCDPH is requesting persons who can assist with medical screening, or are medically certified to provide routine vaccinations (RN, MD, EMT, Paramedics, etc.) with a current license in good standing, and would like to assist in this great community effort,” Galloway’s release said. “The Medical Reserves Corps (MRC) is comprised of volunteers who donate their time and expertise to prepare for and respond to emergencies, promote healthy living throughout the year, and participate in initiatives that enhance public health, such as vaccination and health education programs.”
Anyone interested in volunteering or securing additional information should contact Kyle Fraser at (928) 718-4909 or kyle.fraser@mohavecounty.us.
Dave Hawkins