The number of coronavirus infections in SA’s prison system has jumped to 605, with the Western Cape accounting for as many as 24 new cases.
This is according to correctional services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo.
He said 186 officials and 419 inmates had contracted the virus, while more than 100 people had recovered.
Nxumalo said the new statistics have forced the department to increase surveillance at facilities in the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape.
Covid-19 cases in prisons pass 600
Image: Gallo Images/Thinkstock
The number of coronavirus infections in SA’s prison system has jumped to 605, with the Western Cape accounting for as many as 24 new cases.
This is according to correctional services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo.
He said 186 officials and 419 inmates had contracted the virus, while more than 100 people had recovered.
Nxumalo said the new statistics have forced the department to increase surveillance at facilities in the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape.
Almost 600 coronavirus infections in SA’s prisons
“Health care officials continue to render a tremendous service as recoveries are recorded on a regular basis. Therefore, it remains critical that prevention measures do work in our correctional centres in order to contain infections and drive down active cases,” he said.
The total breakdown of Covid-19 cases in the department of correctional services was recorded as follows:
Prison official dies from coronavirus in Western Cape
Infections continue to climb as prisoners await ‘Covid-19 parole’
Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Trending
Related articles
Latest Videos