Accessibility links

Breaking News

Could COVID-19 Spread Unchecked in US Prisons?


Inmate Death Underscores COVID-19 Risks for US Prison Population
please wait

No media source currently available

0:00 0:02:26 0:00

Inmate Death Underscores COVID-19 Risks for US Prison Population

The death of a U.S. prisoner in the state of Louisiana is amplifying concerns that COVID-19 could spread unchecked in America’s detention facilities that hold more than two million people nationwide. Health officials and local leaders warn the prison population is especially vulnerable to an outbreak, and that hospitals near prisons would be overwhelmed by any inmate epidemic. VOA’s Chris Simkins reports, some prisons are taking steps in hopes of lessening a looming crisis.

XS
SM
MD
LG