Beach Sheriff ’s Office has reduction in virus cases

The Virginia Beach Sheriff ’s Office announced another reduction in COVID-19 cases Wednesday, according to a news release. The office worked with Virginia Department of Health to test 1,518 inmates, deputies, civilian staff and contractors for COVID-19 on Dec. 4.

It’s the fifth mass testing, and this time, 45 inmates tested positive — a 46% reduction compared with the 83 positive tests among inmates on Nov. 20.

The sheriff ’s office reported two positive results among staff members, including a deputy and a civilian contractor who work in the jail. That’s 71% less than the seven positive results at the end of November. The release said 32 are new cases; 13 previously tested positive.

Positive inmates have been notified by medical staff and placed in quarantine, where they are being closely monitored and can get medical care.

The two positive staff members were told to quarantine at home and seek medical attention if needed until cleared by a physician to return to work.

The sheriff ’s office said COVID-19 protocols have been in place since March, and they’ve taken additional steps to protect the health and safety of the inmates, deputies, civilian staff and public.

“Despite spikes in COVID19 cases in the community, we have seen a dramatic reduction in cases here at the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Ken Stolle in the release. “I am optimistic that we will defeat this outbreak and I am proud of our deputies and medical staff who have been working tirelessly every day to combat COVID-19.”

More information, such as weekly testing updates, can be found at vbso.net/coronavirus.