Hawaii inmate dies at Arizona prison with COVID-19 outbreak

A Hawaii inmate has died at a privately owned prison in Arizona that has experienced an outbreak of the coronavirus, Hawaii officials said.

A 61-year-old man was found unresponsive in his bed at the Saguaro Correctional Center on Oct. 29 and was pronounced dead shortly afterward, Hawaii Department of Public Safety officials said.

The cause of death for the man has not yet been determined and his name was not immediately released.

Coronavirus in Arizona: Latest case numbers

The prison has had 65 Hawaii prisoners test positive for the coronavirus, KGMB-TV reported.

The state Department of Public Safety said a complete quarantine of the Hawaii population at the prison was not implemented until Thursday, when mass testing of the facility's 1,082 inmates started. Test results are still pending for more than 1,011 prisoners, state public safety officials said.

A request for comment made by KGMB-TV to the Saguaro Correctional Center and the prison’s operator CoreCivic was not immediately returned.

MAP: Arizona Coronavirus cases by zip code

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some — especially older adults and people with existing health problems — it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.

On CoronavirusNOW.com, you'll find extensive coverage about COVID-19, including breaking news from around the country, exclusive interviews with health officials, and informative content from a variety of public health resources.

In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends: 

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • Monitor your health daily

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