Another jail outbreak confirmed
Two more Graham County residents have succumbed to COVID-19.
The Graham County Health Department recently announced the county’s latest deaths, bringing the total number to 22.
In a press release about the deaths, the health department urged those in the community to remember the virus and take ample precautions.
“It is an unfortunate reminder that COVID-19 is a serious illness and poses a deadly threat to the most vulnerable among us,” read a passage from the release. “Please be mindful of your social gatherings, mask wearing and close contact with those around you.”
The health department also confirmed a second outbreak in the Graham County Jail.
As of Friday, six unvaccinated inmates have tested positive for the virus. The health department is assisting the jail in controlling the outbreak.
The previous jail outbreak occurred in June – with at least a dozen cases, of which four were staff members. The June outbreak led to the jail being secured, with no one allowed in or out without quarantine. The situation required the Graham County Sheriff’s Office to send those arrested during the timeframe to neighboring counties’ detention facilities.
Monday also marked a week back in the classroom for Graham County Schools students. The Graham County Board of Education made the decision for the district to go virtual for eight instructional days at an Aug. 30 specially-called meeting, as the number of quarantined students and staff had reached a critical level. The board also voted to require masks for students and faculty, with the mandate being revisited at the board’s October regular meeting.
As of Sept. 16, 67 students were in quarantine and 21 additional students had tested positive. The district enrolls 1,179 students. Three staff members were reported quarantined, in addition to seven positive cases among the district’s 208 staff.