COVID-19: Jail inmates, staff test positive

COEUR d’ALENE — Inmates and staff at the Kootenai County Jail have tested positive for COVID-19, according to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.

Currently 23 inmates and five staff members have tested positive. There are 358 inmates at the Kootenai County Jail.

The first positive test result was reportedly received Aug. 5, while three more people tested positive on Aug. 7 and 23 more tested positive today.

The vast majority of those testing positive are asymptomatic. All those who have tested positive are in quarantine.

Medical staff are conducting phased testing of inmates and staff, based on exposure and symptoms.

All jail staff are required to wear face masks and personal protective equipment when inside the facility. Any officers or visitors are also required to wear a face covering when entering the secured parts of the jail.