According to recent reports, staff at the Adelanto Detention Center in Adelanto, California have begun using a disinfectant known HDQ Neutral as a means to prevent the spread of COVID-19, allegedly spraying down their facilities over 50 times a day. While Adelanto staff are able to wear protective gear while using the spray, immigrants detained at the center have claimed to be experiencing symptoms such as nausea, bleeding, and respiratory failure due to their exposure to HDQ Neutral. Since May 11, nine inmates have fallen severely ill as a result.  

Adelanto's choice to use this harmful chemical agent without also ensuring the safety of their inmates is causing needless suffering among those who have already experienced pain and hardship. This neglectful and ultimately cruel behavior must be stopped immediately, and those responsible for authorizing use of HDQ Neutral must be held accountable. Please consider signing this petition in order to spread awareness of this issue to politicians in Adelanto and the greater state of California.  

More Information: https://www.insider.com/report-detention-centers-use-disinfectant-causing-bleeding-and-pain-2020-6