The Department of Correctional Services briefed the media on Monday, regarding the outbreak of Diphtheria at the Pollsmoor Correctional Centre. A 19-year-old inmate died and eight other inmates tested positive for the contagious bacterial infection
COURTESY: Science Direct“We would like to assure the public and stakeholders that
we are taking proactive measures to address and contain any possible spread of
the disease. The epidemiological investigation on the index case is still
ongoing,’’ said National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale.
“Recognising the potential risks associated with communal
living, we have implemented a comprehensive set of measures to mitigate the
spread of the disease within the correctional setting. We are doing this
because we also know that [a] Diphtheria outbreak in a correctional environment
requires a coordinated and comprehensive response in order to contain the
spread and provide appropriate medical care to the affected individuals,’’ he
added.
Thobakgale explained that the inmate who died, fell ill
after being transported back to the facility following a court appearance on
October 17.
“When the inmate showed signs of not feeling well, the
Correctional Services Health Care officials treated him and a decision was
taking that he be transferred to an outside hospital. At the time the inmate
showed malaise and respiratory symptoms hence the transfer to Victoria Hospital
on 28 October.
“He received further treatment and was tested for
Diphtheria and the results came back positive on 02 November 2023.
Unfortunately, the inmate’s condition deteriorated and he sadly passed away on
5 November 2023 at the Groote Schuur Hospital,” he added.
Thobakgale outlined the measures taken which include:
Vaccination campaign: The department has initiated a
vaccination campaign to ensure that all eligible individuals receive the
Diphtheria vaccine. A total of 342 inmates have been vaccinated. In terms of
officials, the department stands at 36.
Hygiene practices: Inmates and staff members are once more
being educated and encouraged to practice enhanced hygiene, including regular
handwashing with soap and water, covering mouth and nose when coughing or
sneezing, and the use of hand sanitizers. Facilities are being deep cleaned in
an effort to minimize the risk of disease transmission. This involves pest
control.
Isolation: according to Thobakgale, direct contacts
are “effectively on day 16 of
isolation”. Appropriate medical care is also provided to those classified as
high risk.
Regular Health screenings: Inmates and staff members are
now subjected to regular health screenings to detect any potential cases early to
enable DCS to prevent the spread of the disease and be ready to deal with new
infections should they emerge.
Medical attention: Health care professionals are available
and are treating affected inmates. Appropriate medical treatment is also being
offered. The Department of Health is also working closely with DCS in this
regard thus ensuring a comprehensive response plan.
“We are leaving nothing to chance, health education efforts
to inform inmates, DCS officials and service providers about the symptoms of
Diphtheria, the importance of vaccination, and preventive measures are being
amplified. Our health care team is vigilant in monitoring the situation and the
infection prevention measures are for every individual in a correctional
facility to follow through.
“The situation is calm and under control. No new cases have
been reported in the past five days. Hence, we do believe that the measures
that we have put in place shall be effective in ensuring the well-being of
everyone in our care,” he said.
Done By: Alungile Njemla
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