Incidence and Predictors of COVID-19 Infection in Prison Healthcare Workers.
Julie Caruth, Kathleen Black, Alicia Legard, Adriana De Resende, Kylie Getz, Michelle Borowski, Lisa Debilio, Arthur Brewer, Howard Kipen, Iris G Udasin, Judith M Graber
Author Information
Julie Caruth: From the Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, School of Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Piscataway, New Jersey (J.C., H.K., I.G.U.); Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey (J.C., K.B., A.L., A.D.R., H.K., I.G.U., J.M.G.); Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey (K.G., J.M.G.); Biostatistics and Epidemiology Services Center, Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ (K.G.); and Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, University Correctional Health Care, Trenton, New Jersey (M.B., L.D., A.B.). ORCID
OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to assess the predictors of SARS-CoV-2 infection among correctional healthcare workers (HCWs). METHODS: We conducted a retrospective chart review to describe the demographic and workplace characteristics of New Jersey correctional HCWs between March 15, 2020, and August 31, 2020, using univariate and multivariable analysis. RESULTS: Among 822 HCWs, patient-facing staff had the highest incidence of infection (7.2%). Associated risk factors include being Black and working in a maximum-security prison. There were few statistically significant findings due to small total numbers ( n = 47) that tested positive. CONCLUSIONS: Correctional HCWs' challenging work environment creates unique risk factors for infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Administrative measures taken by the department of corrections may have a significant role in curbing the spread of infection. The findings can help focus preventive measures for reducing the spread of COVID-19 in this unique population.
