Bug hits prisons
Facilities see increase in flu-like symptoms; one inmate death being investigated
Published:Wednesday | November 13, 2024 | 12:06 AMAndre Williams/Staff Reporter -
An unknown bug is afflicting the island’s two largest prisons, triggering a wave of concern among staff and inmates.
The Gleaner understands that Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre in downtown Kingston and St Catherine Adult Correctional Centre in Spanish Town have seen an increase in medical emergencies over the past 72 hours.
Yesterday, the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirmed that an increase in flu-like symptoms among inmates at the St Catherine facility prompted immediate restrictions.
“Interim measures were immediately taken to isolate affected inmates, restrict movements, and mandate the wearing of masks. The medical team is having the necessary tests done to inform the diagnosis,” the DCS said.
While an inmate died at the St Catherine-based prison on Tuesday, the cause has not yet been determined. The death is being probed by the Independent Commission of Investigations.
“Regrettably, one inmate was pronounced dead at the Spanish Town Hospital at approximately 6:45 a.m. on Tuesday. ... No connection can be made at this time with the increase in flu symptoms at the facility,” the DCS said.
Sources close to the situation have described disturbing symptoms among several inmates, including fainting, vomiting, and signs of severe discomfort. Additionally, prison visits have reportedly been temporarily suspended.
“A di worse case of flu-like sickness I’ve seen take the prison,” a source told The Gleaner. “Some are just recovering and others are coming down with the illness. Nobody is certain what it is … . I believe they (DCS) were overwhelmed and wanted it to just pass naturally.”
The DCS emphasised that it is following all relevant medical protocols to ensure the safety and care of both staff and inmates at its facilities.
On Tuesday, the Ministry of Health and Wellness indicated that influenza vaccines are now available free of cost to specific members of the public at health centres across the island.
The vaccine is being offered to high-priority groups, including healthcare workers; children and the elderly with chronic illnesses; pregnant women; individuals who are institutionalised or in state care; and non-health frontline workers.
It noted that the flu is highly contagious and its symptoms could include fever/chills, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, cough, headache, and runny or stuffy nose.
“Children and the elderly are at high-risk, and the flu is to be taken seriously, as it can lead to pneumonia and blood infections, and cause diarrhoea and seizures in children. The flu can also worsen chronic medical conditions such as heart or lung disease,” warned Chief Medical Officer Dr Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie.
The ministry said that influenza activity in Jamaica often begins to increase in October to November, peaking between December to March, and can last as late as May.