Inmate Death Underscores COVID-19 Risks for US Prison Population

COVID PRISON INMATE RELEASES – The death of a U.S. prisoner in the state of Louisiana is amplifying concerns that COVID-19 could spread unchecked in America’s detention facilities that hold more than two million people nationwide.

Health officials and local leaders warn the prison population is especially vulnerable to an outbreak, and that hospitals near prisons would be overwhelmed by any inmate epidemic.VOA’s Chris Simkins, some prisons are taking steps in hopes of lessening a looming crisis.