Inmates Infected with Coronavirus

As of August 17, 2020, two cases of COVID-19 infection have been recorded among the imprisoned individuals held in the correctional facilities of the Republic of Armenia. In both instances, the infected individuals were detainees. This was reported by a group of public observers engaged in public oversight within the correctional facilities and bodies of the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Armenia.

The report states: “The first COVID-19 carrier, an inmate of the ‘Kosh’ penitentiary of the Ministry of Justice, was isolated in the 'Hospital for Convicted Persons' medical unit located at the 'Penitentiary Medical Center' on June 6, 2020. On June 23, he underwent repeated testing using the PCR method, the results of which were negative. After receiving appropriate medical assistance, he was discharged from the 'Hospital for Convicted Persons' on June 26 with satisfactory health, as assessed by the Ministry of Justice.”

The second infected individual, an inmate of the 'Armavir' penitentiary, was at the 'National Mental Health Center' on July 21, 2020. After the examination was completed, he underwent COVID-19 sampling on August 2, with a positive result returned on August 4. After being discharged from the center, he was isolated in the specially designated conditions of the medical unit located at the 'Hospital for Convicted Persons.' On August 8 and 18, rapid testing showed negative results for the inmate. Currently, his health condition is assessed as moderate by the Ministry of Justice, and he is under the supervision of the medical staff of the 'Hospital for Convicted Persons.'

Thus, according to the official information provided by the Ministry of Justice, as of August 17, 2020, a total of 157 individuals held in accordance with the Ministry's jurisdiction have been tested, of which 26 were detainees and 130 were sentenced individuals. Two positive COVID-19 cases have been recorded among detainees.

A total of 347 tests were conducted among the employees of the correctional system. COVID-19 was detected in 71 employees. As of August 17, 2020, the number of recovered individuals has reached 63, while 8 individuals are receiving treatment.