Arizona inmates possibly exposed to Hepatitis C
Web Producer: Ina Ronquillo
PHOENIX (AP) - At least 100 inmates at the state prison west of Phoenix may have been exposed to Hepatitis C because medication was administered with a dirty needle.
The state Department of Corrections says a contracted nurse violated the basic infection-control protocols.
The Arizona Republic says the incident occurred Aug. 27 at the Arizona State Prison Complex-Lewis in Buckeye, but the DOC didn't release any information about it until Tuesday.
Hepatitis C is a viral disease that leads to inflammation of the liver.
Prison officials say inmates who were exposed have been notified and are currently being screened for infectious diseases.
An independent laboratory will provide continued medical monitoring and testing of these potentially exposed inmates over the next several months.
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Information from: The Arizona Republic, http://www.azcentral.com
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