Weber County Jail reports second COVID outbreak with 32 active cases

OGDEN, Utah — Weber County Jail reported 32 active COVID-19 cases among inmates, making this the second outbreak in the facility since July. The jail is waiting on 53 pending tests from Monday to determine the total number of positive cases. 

“We continue to follow CDC guidelines in preventing and limiting the spread of the virus,” the jail said in a Facebook post. “We express sincere appreciation to our staff and our medical providers for their diligent efforts in combating the challenges of this pandemic.”

 

 

The numbers come as the state reported 2,302 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday and that 8,518 vaccines have been administered so far. Utah’s inmate population is considered one of the most at-risk populations, with the Utah Department of Corrections reporting 964 active cases in state prisons. 

The Utah Department of Health plans to vaccinate those in correctional facilities in Phase Two of its distribution plan — which is expected to roll out in February or March. 

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How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus

COVID-19 coronavirus spreads person to person, similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:

• Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
• Don’t touch your face.
• Wear a mask to protect yourself and others per CDC recommendations.
• Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet).
• If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities).
• Get a flu shot.

Local resources

KSL Coronavirus Q&A 

Utah’s Coronavirus Information 

Utah State Board of Education

Utah Hospital Association

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707

National Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization

Cases in the United States