Possible flu at Del. corrections center shuts down visitation

A Delaware corrections center says they may have several inmates with the flu, and are cancelling any visitations as a precaution.

The Delaware Department of Corrections says over the last 24 hours, medical staff at the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution have treated at least six inmates who have possible cases of the influenza virus. Officials say specimens from the sick inmates have been sent to a lab for analysis, to get confirmation.

There are apparently 40 offenders in all, who may have been exposed, and are now being monitored and treated in the institutions’ infirmary. Officials say cellmates of the offenders who may have the flu are currently isolated, as a precaution, and were given anti-viral medication in an effort to prevent any potential spread of the virus, although they have not exhibited any symptoms indicative of the flu virus.

The DOC says at this time, all visits are cancelled, along with programs, volunteers, commissary, chapel services, and access to the gym and fitness center. Officials have also apparently halted all unnecessary institutional movement, no court transports outside of facility, and all court/police committals will be diverted to James T. Vaughn Correctional Center.

The precautions are expected to stay in place, until Friday. These procedures will apparently not prevent the scheduled release of any offender. The DOC says they did offer voluntary flu vaccinations beginning in the fall, and will continue to make said vaccinations available to offenders and staff.