Two Lusignan Prison inmates have tested positive for the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), prison authorities confirmed yesterday.
“Despite taking all necessary precautions, two (02) prisoners from the Holding Bay at Lusignan have tested positive for the Coronavirus (COVID-19),” Director of Prisons Gladwin Samuels disclosed via a statement yesterday, while adding that the official results of the two prisoners were received by the Prison Administration at approximately 3pm.
He stated that the circumstances under which the two prisoners contracted the disease are currently unknown but contact tracing protocols have since commenced.
“All steps are being taken to segregate persons with whom they came into contact. Resources are being gathered to prevent further spread. 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,” he added.
Samuels also revealed that systems are being put in place to monitor the rest of the prison population along with Prison Officers and staff.
It was also stated that the steps taken over the months to prevent COVID-19 from making its way to the prisons will be revisited and expanded where necessary.
“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,” the statement added.
