Number of cases, recoveries at northeast Colorado prison continue to rise

The number of cases of COVID-19 at a northeast Colorado prison continues to rise, but so do recoveries. 

According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), there are 539 confirmed cases of COVID-19 at the Sterling Correctional Facility among inmates. The number of recoveries is also up to 427, meaning there are 112 active cases among the prison inmate population.

Two inmates at the facility have died of COVID-19. 

Data from the CDPHE shows there are 22 staff members who have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total cases associated with the prison to 561. The most recent update from the Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) says there are only 4 staff members currently positive across all of its facilities. 

According to the CDOC, 33 staff members are currently listed as on leave. This includes the active cases and anyone who is isolating due to potential exposure or is showing symptoms. 

The Sterling Correctional Facility has been in Phase III operations since the first case was confirmed in mid-April. When this operation phase is in effect, all inmates stay in their cells except for opportunities to shower. All meals and medication are delivered to the inmates at their cells. This will stay in effect until there are no COVID-19 cases left at the facility. 

There are 582 confirmed cases in Logan County, the county where the Sterling Correctional Facility is located. This includes the cases at the prison, meaning there are 21 cases not associated with the prison and 43 cases in the county not among prison inmates.