TDOC Prepares for H1N1

NASHVILLE - The Tennessee Department of Correction is taking steps to protect staff and inmates from spread of the H1N1 virus.  Each prison facility is on high alert for signs and symptoms of both the seasonal flu and H1N1.  Prison clinics are enforcing ongoing monitoring of the offender population and staff.  As vaccines become available, they will be provided to both groups.

Commissioner George M. Little said, "We are asking visitors to be aware that in the event of a major outbreak, the department will take measures to prevent transmission which may include suspension of visitation in extreme cases and suspension of inmate transfers."  The public should visit www.tn.gov/correction for updates.

Pandemic Influenza Precautions have been implemented in the prisons including hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, frequent environmental cleaning of "high touch" surfaces, post-educational awareness posters throughout the facilities and intensive influenza screening of inmates at reception centers and in sick call.