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On Tuesday (September 23), three employees at Fishkill Correctional Facility were taken to a local hospital after falling ill due to exposure to an unknown substance. This incident is part of a troubling pattern affecting the entire state prison system, which has seen a rise in overdoses among both inmates and staff. The unknown substance has caused symptoms such as fainting, nausea, vomiting, elevated blood pressure, and blurred vision, and has required the use of Narcan to reverse its effects, as reported by Mid-Hudson News.
The situation at Fishkill Correctional Facility has been particularly severe, with recent incidents involving suspected fentanyl exposures. Last week, a Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) required multiple ambulances and a hazmat team to respond, resulting in nine correction officers being hospitalized, according to Mid-Hudson News.
In response to these incidents, the Department of Corrections has removed all germicides from facilities to prevent the creation of opioid-like substances. However, the exact composition of the substance causing these incidents remains unknown. The ongoing crisis highlights the challenges faced by correctional facilities in managing contraband and ensuring the safety of staff and inmates.