WHAT IS THE STATUS OF COVID-19?

As of June 2021, operations within all prison facilities have returned to normal. Testing of those in the inmate population will be done upon request or if medically necessary.

NDCS advocates the following universal health precautions:

• Avoiding close contact with sick people and staying home if you are sick.
• ​Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash, or cough into your sleeve.
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.

WHAT IS THE STATUS OF INMATE VISITATION?

Visitation has been temporarily suspended at the Diagnostic & Evaluation Center, due to an increase in COVID-19 cases. This step is for the health and safety of the incarcerated population, staff members and visitors.

Visitations services continue as normal at all other NDCS facilities. Additional information can be found on each facility page. A visitation request should be submitted at least sever days prior to the scheduled date. NDCS reserves the right to suspend visitation in its facilities depending on conditions related to COVID-19.

WHAT IS THE STATUS OF VOLUNTEERS?

Volunteer programs have been notified of their ability to return to NDCS. NDCS has also reinstated congregant worship activities. Some specific activities related to worship practices which could put the health of participants at risk, remain on hold. 

IS ANYONE BEING SCREENED PRIOR TO COMING INTO A FACILITY?

All formal screenings, including the taking of temperatures, have been suspended. Wearing of masks into an NDCS building is voluntary. Individuals who are not feeling well are still encouraged to self-assess their symptoms before coming into NDCS.

WHAT ABOUT INMATES COMING FROM JAILS?

All new admissions (new commits, safe keepers, parole/PRS violators) to NDCS reception facilities are placed on quarantine status for a minimum of 14 days unless an exception is made by a facility health care manager. Decisions pertaining to intake of inmates and transfers will be addressed based on circumstances relative to the status of COVID-19 in the facilities and in the community.

ARE MASKS REQUIRED INSIDE THE FACILITIES OR OTHER NDCS BUILDINGS?

Masks are no longer required inside any NDCS buildings. Wearing of masks for staff members, the incarcerated population, volunteers and visitors is still permitted on a voluntary basis.

ARE STAFF MEMBERS REQUIRED TO BE TESTED FOR COVID-19?

Testing of staff members remains voluntary and can be scheduled in the community. 

ARE INMATES REQUIRED TO BE TESTED FOR COVID-19?

Inmates are not required to be tested, but may be tested if symptoms present consistent with coronavirus, upon request and if indicated prior to undergoing a medical procedure. Inmates who test positive will be medically isolated. Those who are exposed to someone who has tested positive or with symptoms will be quarantined.

ARE STAFF MEMBERS AND THOSE IN THE INCARCERATED POPULATION VACCINATED?

Vaccinations are voluntary for both staff members and inmates. NDCS has hosted vaccination clinics for teammates and members of the incarcerated population. 

WHAT IF CASES OF COVID-19 START TO CLIMB?

Should cases of COVID-19 start to increase, either inside the agency or in the community, NDCS will assess the impact and determine if precautions need to be re-instated to ensure the health of all involved. We will continue to coordinate information and efforts with other state agencies and area health departments to ensure that the response to any emerging situation is handled expediently and effectively.

Updated 8/5/2021