The structure and function of a correctional facility's infection control program is described with focus on the need to develop appropriate policies and procedures pertinent to infection control. These pertain to surveillance, outbreak exposure investigations, employee issues, and diseases of particular concern such as tuberculosis, AIDS and hepatitis B, communicable diseases preventable by vaccine, varicella infection, and sexually transmitted diseases. A small facility may combine employee health, inservice education, and infection control. There needs to be a mandatory education program for all medical and support staff and a comprehensive health education program for inmates and correction officers, but the curriculum need not be the sole responsibility of the infection control program. 8 references (Author abstract modified)