Oregon State Penitentiary inmate suspected of contracting tuberculosis moved to hospital for further testing
SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Oregon Department of Corrections said it became aware Friday that a case of tuberculosis was suspected in an Oregon State Penitentiary inmate.
The agency said the individual has been in their custody for about four months and is currently isolated and undergoing further testing.
Tuberculosis is a serious but treatable bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs and can be spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or sings.
“We understand that this news is concerning, but we are taking every necessary step to manage this situation effectively,” said DOC Director Mike Reese. “Our priority is to safeguard the health and safety of everyone in our care — staff and incarcerated individuals alike. We have well-trained medical staff at every institution, and they are addressing any concerns staff or AICs have as more information becomes available.”
DOC is working with the Oregon Health Authority on a plan of action to ensure proper isolation, infection control, testing, contact tracing, and medical evaluation protocols are in place to support this individual and protect staff and other adults in custody (AICs).
Upon identification of a potential positive TB case Friday afternoon, the AIC was transported from Oregon State Penitentiary to Salem Memorial Hospital to undergo testing. Once testing is completed, the AIC will be transported to Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, where they will be isolated in a negative pressure cell in the infirmary. Full test results may take up to two weeks.
