South Africa: Concern over coronavirus infections in prison

South Africa’s Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has announced that 49 inmates at the East London Correctional Centre have tested positive for the coronavirus in just two days. 

The number of infected prisoners at the correctional facility now stands at 53, with some 23 prison officials also infected.

DCS spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said the first case was reported on 6th April after an official who had attended a burial tested positive. 

Mass testing was started at the facility after another official tested positive two days later. 

According to the DCS, the prison has been disinfected and health care workers are monitoring and managing those who have tested positive. 

Mr Nxumalo said a list of suitable hospitals for prisoners had been prepared and transport was on standby. 

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