Coronavirus at Lusignan Prison; containment efforts intensify

Last Updated on Tuesday, 15 September 2020, 17:57 by Denis Chabrol

Director of Prisons Gladwin Samuels says two inmates of the Holding Bay at Lusignan have tested positive for the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

He said that occurred despite “taking all necessary precautions.”

He said official results came to the Prison Administration on Tuesday, September 15, 2020 at approximately 15:00 hours.

He said steps were being taken to minimize the spread of the potentially deadly virus that attacks the respiratory system.

“The circumstances under which the two prisoners contracted the virus are presently unknown, and contact tracing has begun.

All steps are being taken to segregate persons with whom they came into contact. Resources are being gathered to prevent further spread,” Mr. Samuelscsaud.

The Prisons Director says all persons who are exhibiting signs and symptoms of COVID-19 will be examined and exposed to the Standard Operational Procedures outlined by the Ministry of Health.

“Systems are also being put in place to monitor the rest of the prison population and to monitor Prison Officers and staff.

Further, the steps taken over the months to prevent coronavirus from the prison will be revisited and expanded where necessary,” he said.

He added that the Guyana Prison Service wishes to reassure all prisoners and Prison Officers that this matter is being viewed very seriously and that all mitigation strategies are in place for their protection.