Saskatchewan Penitentiary is located just west of Prince Albert off Highway 302. (File photo/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Corrections

Sask. Pen staff member tests positive for COVID-19

Oct 1, 2020 | 6:00 PM

During Thursday afternoon’s press conference, Saskatchewan’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab confirmed a reporter’s question that a staff member at the Saskatchewan Penitentiary has in fact tested positive for COVID-19.

While there was only the one known case, Shahab explained public health was working closely with corrections, which involves contact tracing.

“Those close contacts will be put under self-isolation,” he said. “Any other people who require self-monitoring will be put under self-monitoring for the testing to be done.”

The positive case marks the first of its kind at the prison since the onset of COVID-19, and Shahab explained the testing being done is routine procedure that would be done in any institutional setting.

According to a statement from the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC), the infected person is self-isolating at home.

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“For privacy reasons, we cannot disclose their position, however, we can tell you that the employee did not have contact with inmates,” the statement said.

The statement goes on to explain the institution is not locked down and is still accommodating visits. Staffing levels are being monitored and assessed daily and adjusted, as required.

Currently 29 staff that work at Saskatchewan Penitentiary are at home self-isolating as a precaution, but the CSC explained it is important to note that this number may fluctuate as result of contact tracing efforts, which is conducted in partnership with public health.

“Staff on-site have shown flexibility and some have worked extended hours to meet the operational requirements of running the institution,” the CSC said, adding they’re monitoring the situation closely and and will continue to apply their infection prevention and control measures.

“We continue to actively screen employees entering our institutions and all employees are equipped with the appropriate personal protective equipment, including non-medical masks. We continue to raise awareness of COVID-19 among inmates and employees, including prevention measures, how to recognize symptoms and protocols to follow. We have also increased cleaning and disinfecting at sites.”

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nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell