Suzette Cook
The Alachua County Jail reported Tuesday that it has 23 cases of COVID-19, which translates to the same 3.1 percent average positivity rate Alachua County is experiencing.
The reported data contradicts local reports of an “outbreak” at the jail.Â
According to Art Forgey Alachua County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson, those 23 cases came out of a total inmate population of 723 on April 19.
“There are additional tests outstanding that we have not received back yet,” Forgey said. He added that jail staff is “handling themselves well and in a very professional manner and taking CDC recommended precautions.”
So far, 15 inmates have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, according to Forgey. The Alachua County Health Department provides the doses, while the jail’s medical contractor, Corizon Correctional Healthcare, administers them.Â
Administration of the vaccine has been based on age, risk factors and length of stay, according to Forgey.
The 23 inmates that have tested positive are being isolated, and there are just over 40 that are being quarantined for 14 days each time a new positive case is identified, according to Forgey.
Inmates are not required to take the vaccine.
“Just like the general population, inmates are given a choice if they would like to receive it or not,” he said.