A lockdown at the Drumheller Institution has been lifted as an inmate who was exhibiting flu-like symptoms tested negative for COVID 19.
The Medium Security Unit was put on lockdown on Friday, March 27, as a precautionary measure after two inmates showed symptoms consistent with influenza.
After clinical assessment, one inmate was tested for COVID-19 at Drumheller Institution and the result is negative.
Symptomatic individuals are tested if they meet the public health criteria for testing. The local public health authority makes all decisions regarding swabbing. As part of protocols, inmates with symptoms are isolated from the general inmate population as a preventative measure.
At this time, there are no inmate cases of COVID-19 in federal institutions.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19 in its institutions, CSC continues to suspend visits to inmates, all temporary absences unless medically necessary, work releases for offenders, all inter-regional and international transfers of inmates.
CSC remains in close contact with its public health partners and continues to monitor the situation and engage with authorities.

On March 17, 2020, the Government of Alberta declared a state of public health emergency, implementing aggressive public health measures province-wide to limit the spread of COVID-19 and protect Albertans.

If you have COVID-19 symptoms, have travelled outside Canada, or were exposed to someone who has COVID-19, it is mandatory that you stay home for a 14-day isolation period. Take the online health assessment from Alberta Health Services. Do not go to a health care facility without consulting 8-1-1 first. If you have been tested for COVID-19, you will be called directly with your test results. If you need immediate medical attention, call 9-1-1 and inform them that you may have COVID-19.

Starland County Preparedness:

Starland County has now implemented processes and protocols from our Business Continuity Plan to address and maintain all of our essential services, such as water, sewer, fire and snow plowing. Staff are meeting daily to proactively implement measures to try to slow the spread of the virus and mitigate potential impacts on the community. All Starland County Buildings are now closed to the public, however, staff are still working as usual so as to maintain services, taking extra precautions with social distancing and intensified cleaning and sterilization methods.

Starland County Services:

Residents can still access Starland County services through alternative means, either by telephone, email or online at www.starlandcounty.com. You can phone the office for Fire Permits. Bill payments can be paid by cheque or online. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our Administration Office at 403-772-3793 or email info@starlandcounty.com.

We have established a protocol for staff to follow when handling mail and/or other deliveries to limit their exposure to possible contagions. We will no longer be accepting parcel deliveries for third party customers, unless prior arrangements have been made with our Administration Staff. If you have made arrangements, couriers can then deliver your parcel to our step outside our door and you will be required to pick your parcel up the same day before 4 p.m. as we will not be storing these parcels inside our office.

Starland County Additional Supports:

Being isolated can be very difficult. We would like to extend a helping hand to those in need, especially to our seniors and others who may not be able to get groceries or supplies due to health risks. If you or someone you know in the County needs assistance, please contact our office so that we can connect you with supports available in the community.

Starland County is carefully monitoring the COVID-19 health risk for any new developments and will follow protocols in accordance with the Alberta Government recommendations. Please check our website and social media for updates.