WEBVTT 

00:00:00.390 --> 00:00:03.890
DHS Needs to Enhance Its COVID-19 Response
and Testing at the Southwest Border

00:00:03.929 --> 00:00:07.949
From the Office of Inspector General COVID-19 related findings
September 14, 2021

00:00:08.350 --> 00:00:10.370
Why We Investigated

00:00:10.423 --> 00:00:15.423
In October 2020, during an unprecedented pandemic, the U.S.
began experiencing a surge of migrants at the southwest border.

00:00:16.500 --> 00:00:22.588
We received a hotline complaint concerning the
lack of COVID-19 testing at one CBP location.

00:00:24.875 --> 00:00:25.915
What We Found

00:00:26.417 --> 00:00:33.265
Although DHS generally follows CDC guidance for
COVID-19, DHS does not require testing at CBP facilities.

00:00:34.333 --> 00:00:40.373
Instead, CBP relies on local public health
systems to test symptomatic individuals.

00:00:42.792 --> 00:00:50.792
CBP’s process to obtain COVID-19 testing may not always be
operationally feasible, especially during an influx of migrant crossings.

00:00:51.500 --> 00:00:59.500
Without adequate COVID-19 prevention measures in place, DHS is putting its workforce,
support staff, communities, and migrants at greater risk of contracting the virus.

00:01:00.625 --> 00:01:04.081
Quote from Joseph V. Cuffari Inspector General for DHS

00:01:04.625 --> 00:01:07.625
“During this unprecedented pandemic, it is important that DHS take steps to
protect their workforce, migrants, and communities from the spread of COVID-19.

00:01:07.698 --> 00:01:10.318
We urge them to review their COVID-19 response framework
and continue to identify areas of improvement.”

00:01:10.500 --> 00:01:11.500
What we recommend

00:01:11.958 --> 00:01:16.918
To read all of the findings as well as our
recommendations, visit our website: oig.dhs.gov