Despite CDC Recommendations, States Debate When To Vaccinate Inmates

The video discusses the varied approaches states are taking to vaccinate incarcerated individuals against COVID-19. The CDC recommends prioritizing prison staff and inmates after healthcare workers but before the general public. However, states like Illinois and Massachusetts have prioritized inmates, causing public outrage. Ethical debates arise over whether inmates should be prioritized over high-risk individuals. Experts highlight the rapid spread of COVID-19 in prisons and the importance of vaccinating inmates from a public health perspective. Some states, like Texas and Colorado, have deprioritized inmates, leading to criticism from health experts.

What does the CDC recommend regarding the vaccination order for prison staff and inmates?

• After the general public

• After frontline health care workers but before the general public

• Before frontline health care workers

• After people with high-risk medical conditions

Which states have prioritized vaccinating prisoners and correctional staff?

• Texas and Colorado

• Illinois, Massachusetts, and New Mexico

• Florida and Georgia

• New York and California

What was the outcome of COVID-19 entering a maximum security facility in Rhode Island?

• 95% of the people were infected within two weeks

• Only a few cases were reported

• It was contained quickly

• The facility remained unaffected

How has the Texas Department of Criminal Justice approached inmate vaccinations?

• Vaccinated all inmates first

• Administered over 5500 doses to inmates

• Prioritized inmates over staff

• Not given any doses to inmates

What percentage of documented COVID-19 cases in Illinois stemmed from Cook County Jail?

• 20%

• 16%

• 5%

• 10%