Pottawatomie County health officials say several staff members who tested positive at the county’s Justice Center have been linked to a funeral in Manhattan this past weekend.
Contact tracing has revealed several staff members who tested positive attended a funeral Saturday for one of a long-time coworker who recently passed away. Anyone who attended that funeral or has been at the Justice Center within the last 14 days are encouraged to monitor their health for COVID-19 symptoms.
Those who feel sick should seek healthcare and ask to be tested.
The Justice Center remains closed to the public.
3 p.m. Tuesday original story
At least five people affiliated with the Pottawatomie County Justice Center in Westmoreland have tested positive for COVID-19.
The outbreak was confirmed by health officials Tuesday. Staff are currently taking steps to ensure the health and safety of employees, inmates and visitors to the building. The Justice Center has officially closed to the public as a result.
The county says it plans to share additional information with the public once a plan for moving forward is identified and approved. Those who have visited the Justice Center in the last 14 days are encouraged to monitor for symptoms of COVID-19. Those who feel sick are recommended to seek healthcare and ask to be tested.
As of Monday, Pottawatomie County reported 26 active coronavirus cases, including two hospitalizations. This is the first known outbreak in Pottawatomie County to date.
