Infections COVID-19 Variant Found In Ionia MDOC Facility

The COVID-19 variant, SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7, was found at the Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility in Ionia, according to WILX. The variant is believed to be more contagious than COVID-19.

At this time, this was the first known case of the variant inside the facility.

As of now, all prisoners and staff will be tested daily for the virus, after the administration contacted the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for guidance in the situation.

“The MDOC will be taking extra steps to identify where this variant is present amongst staff and the prisoner population and we will continue to do everything we can to keep the prisoners, our staff and the community safe,” Heidi Washington Director of MDOC said.

The Michigan Department of Corrections is following the rules set by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.