Massachusetts prisons to test all inmates, staff for COVID as state sees second surge
As Massachusetts sees rising rates of
coronavirus cases and hospitalizations, the state’s Department of Correction has announced that all inmates and staff will go through a round of COVID-19 testing.
Starting Saturday, the department’s 16 facilities will go into modified operations for two weeks to allow for the testing, according to a statement.
Inmates will still have access to medication distribution, sick calls, medical appointments, mental health contacts, showers, disinfecting of rooms, telephone use and tier time, the statement said.
General visitation will be temporarily suspended but attorney visits and releases from custody will continue as scheduled, the department said.
Massachusetts condo threatens hefty fines if face coverings aren't worn amid coronavirus pandemic
REVERE, Mass. —
A flyer urging residents to mask up is posted on the front door of Ocean Gate Tower at the sprawling high-rise complex along Ocean Avenue in Revere.
The notice warns about stepped-up fines voted by the board of trustees prompted by some residents not wearing masks.
Residents who commit a first offense will face a $250 fine, followed by fines of $500, $750 and then $1,000 for subsequent violations.
Residents of nearby buildings in the complex tell us masks are required when you step out of your unit.
As the pandemic surges, CDC issues increasingly assertive advice | Boston.com
As the pandemic engulfs the nation, recent recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have been as notable for what they do not say as for what they do. In a turnabout, the agency now is hewing more closely to scientific evidence, often contradicting the positions of the Trump administration.
In scientific briefs published Tuesday, the CDC described the benefits of masks to wearers, not just to those around them. Agency researchers also urged people to celebrate Thanksgiving only with others in their households or, failing that, to wear a mask with two or more layers.