2 Arizona inmates test positive for COVID-19

Two Arizona inmates have tested positive for COVID-19, the Arizona Department of Corrections announced Tuesday. 

The department said the inmates are receiving medical care at their current locations.

The first inmate had been at a community hospital since March 27 because of several non-coronavirus-related symptoms. The department did not specify which hospital or where it is. 

The department said this inmate tested negative twice before while at the hospital. 

A second inmate at the Marana Community Correctional Treatment Facility also tested positive for the virus. 

The Marana facility is a minimum-security third-party operator under contract with the department of corrections. About 500 men are in custody or receiving substance abuse treatment at the Marana facility.

Of more than 42,000 ADC inmates, 60 have been tested, two have tested positive and 48 have tested negative, the department said. 

The department of corrections said it would continue to provide regular updates on its ongoing efforts to reduce the risk of COVID-19 within its facilities. 

MORE STORIES: 

• Federal inmates to be locked in cells for 14 days amid coronavirus

• Defense attorneys across the Valley are trying to get their clients out of jails and prisons due to COVID-19

COVID-19 is believed to be primarily spread through coughs or sneezes.

It may be possible for the virus to spread by touching a surface or object with the virus and then a person touching their mouth, nose or eyes, but this is not thought to be the main method of spread, the CDC says. 

You should consult your doctor if you traveled to an area currently affected by COVID-19 and feel sick with fever, cough or difficulty breathing. 

There is no vaccine for the coronavirus, so the best way to prevent COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases is to:

• 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.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

You can text FACTS to 602-444-1212 to receive more information on the coronavirus and to ask questions.