SowetanLive reports that there has been a steep jump in the number of coronavirus infections in the prison system.  On Saturday, the number of infections stood at 388, but by Sunday the number had jumped to 571.  

A total of 393 prisoners have tested positive for the virus and 178 Department of Correctional Services (DCS) officials.  Of all these cases, 99 have recorded recoveries while four have resulted in fatalities.  DCS spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo Nxumalo advised that in a bid to reduce the spread of the coronavirus, the medical advisory panel had advised correctional services to go beyond the prescribed screening procedures.  As a result, DCS has commenced with advanced screening, which includes assessment of vital signs.  At least 1,087 specimens from inmates were collected on 16 May, and that would henceforth be the norm.  “Infection prevention control is receiving the necessary attention as it plays a critical role in curbing the spread of infection in our centres.  DCS will continue to separate newly admitted inmates from other inmates for at least 14 days,” Nxumalo said.

• Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Naledi Shange at TimesLIVE

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