COVID-19 and Influenza Infection Prevention and Control Measures in U.S. Jails, Prisons, and Detention Centers: A Scoping Review

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundPeople who are incarcerated or detained are at a high risk of infection and death due to viruses spread through droplets, including SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and influenza. Increased risk is largely associated with structural and institutional conditions of detainment, including but not limited to congregate settings, poor ventilation, and barriers to accessing care. The lessons learned from managing previous infectious outbreaks can inform preventative measures for future emerging outbreaks.AimsOur project aims to analyze infection prevention and control measures for COVID-19 and influenza in U.S. correctional facilities.MethodsWe searched the PubMed and Embase databases for manuscripts evaluating the effectiveness of influenza or COVID-19 mitigation measures. Then, we reviewed the reference lists from our results to identify manuscripts not captured by the initial search.ResultsOut of the 553 articles initially found, only 28 met the inclusion criteria, with 27 focusing on COVID-19. Two additional studies were added after reviewing reference lists. Effective measures to prevent the spread of both infections included vaccines, testing, de-densification, limiting movement, masks, and contact tracing.ConclusionImproved infrastructure, stakeholder collaboration, and research on sustainable responses are needed to address disproportionate impacts on people who are incarcerated or detained.