Infection Control in Carceral Facilities

At the end of 2022, 5.4 million people (1 of every 48 adults) were either in jail, in prison, or on probation/parole in the United States. One in 20 persons in the United States (5%) will be incarcerated during their lifetime. Among those newly admitted to carceral settings, the prevalence of active tuberculosis disease and infections from blood-borne viruses and sexually transmitted pathogens is substantially higher than in community counterparts. Exposure to the carceral setting places residents, employees, and visitors at risk for acquiring communicable diseases, predominately those transmitted via airborne routes. Efforts to prevent, mitigate, or control infectious diseases benefit those within carceral facilities and also surrounding communities. This review briefly explores some of the changes, challenges, and opportunities relevant to the prevention and control of infectious diseases in jails, prisons, and juvenile residential facilities. It also emphasizes the need for adequate education and training when planning and implementing interventions.