Maryland prisons have temporarily suspended visitation at all State correctional institutions.
Officials say the suspension was decided as a precaution after prison inmates and staff in Ohio and Pennsylvania grew ill from possible drug exposure.
“We are taking precautions to ensure the safety and security of our employees and inmates,” Department Secretary Stephen T. Moyer said.
The department plans to accept mail at it's facilities but it will not be opened or distributed.
Prison staff has been instructed to use all provided protective equipment.
According to officials, there have been no reported cases in Maryland.
In Pennsylvania, prison staff fell ill from an unknown substance, whereas in Ohio 20 correctional officers and inmates at a prison in Chillicothe suffered possible drug exposure.
All suspensions will remain in place until further notice though, officials hope visits resume by the weekend.
