Three employees at the Drumheller Institution have tested positive for COVID-19 and are self-isolating at home.
The first of these cases, according to a statement from a media advisor with Correctional Service Canada (CSC), was identified on Tuesday, October 27.
“At this time, and out of an abundance of caution, the institution is not accommodating visits. We are limiting comings and going to essential staff and for medical reasons,” the statement read.
In addition to restricting the accommodation of visits, the institution is also conducting contact tracing in partnership with local public health authorities.
There have been no positive cases of COVID-19 among inmates, and mass testing is being offered. As of Thursday, October 29 a total of 23 inmates have been tested according to the CSC website.
“While inmates must consent to being tested, we encourage them to do so and have raised awareness about the process and benefits of getting tested,” the statement said, going on to say the situation is being monitored closely and diligently.
“We have health services in our institutions with health professionals on-site to monitor and treat inmates, as needed. We are committed to reducing the risks of COVID-19 in all of our operations and keeping our employees, inmates, and the public safe,” the statement added.
There is currently one active case in Drumheller, three in Wheatland County, and six in Kneehill County; Starland County currently has zero active cases.
