MARCH 18, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEWS RELEASE #20-0318
CONTACT: SHERIFF TIM MORSE 785-364-2251
Update Regarding Changes Due to the Coronavirus
- JACKSON COUNTY, KANSAS (March 18, 2020) Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic Sheriff Tim Morse has put into effect a variety of restrictions in the Jackson County Jail for the purpose of safeguarding the inmate population as well as staff. The medical screening that inmates receive prior to being introduced into the Jail has been expanded to include screening symptoms for the COVID-19 VIRUS. In addition, groups that have visited the Jail in the past have been restricted from accessing the facility. Many of these changes have occurred after consultation with our medical provider. Visitation of inmates remains solely through video visitation. During this difficult time, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office remains on the job and is here to assist you if needed. Everyone needs to be vigilant and follow the medical direction that has been provided. Citizens should exercise the following practices:
- Stay home if you can and avoid gatherings of more than ten people.
- Practice social distancing by keeping a distance of about six feet from others if you must go out in public.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing; throw used tissues in the trash. If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow or sleeve, not your hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, computers, phones, keyboards, sinks, toilets, faucets and countertops.
- If surfaces are dirty, clean them – use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection
- Wear a facemask if you are sick. You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office.
According to the CDC, COVID-19 symptoms include fever, shortness of breath and a cough. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure. Call your doctor for medical advice if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop symptoms.
More information can be found at https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus.