GEORGE NEWS - An outbreak of chickenpox at the George Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has resulted in many court cases being postponed as the accused aren't allowed to leave the prison.
This puts even more pressure on an already overburdened court roll.
According to information received by George Herald, a section of the prison was placed under quarantine 14 days ago and the quarantine period was increased to 21 days this week.
"This means they can't receive any visitors or even go to court," said a prisoner's wife.
"I don't even know if it's true that there is an outbreak. My husband has not received any medication and has not been screened and they aren't getting any answers from officials."
Another prisoner who reached out to George Herald says they were told that someone in their section with about 40 prisoners, contracted chickenpox and they were all put under quarantine without any further communication.
He has already missed two court dates and it seems he will miss his next one as well.
Outbreak managed by the book
Nadia Ferreira, Western Cape Health spokesperson for the Garden Route and Central Karoo, said that to date they have not received any information about an outbreak of chickenpox at the prison.
DCS confirmed the outbreak and said that as per the correct reporting structure, it was reported to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD). A total of eight cases were confirmed after some prisoners showed a skin rash.
"Due to the virus being airborne, along with its high rate of transmission, affected inmates and remand detainees (trial awaiting prisoners) have been isolated," said Candice van Reenen, DCS' regional coordinator for communication.
She said that symptomatic inmates are being managed according to the NICD guidelines.
A media enquiry has been sent to the NICD. George Herald is awaiting a reply.
According to Van Reenen, no DCS officials have shown any symptoms yet.
"Due to a positive case being identified within the group, the quarantine period was extended. Remand detainees who came into contact with the affected inmates were screened and isolated as a precaution.
"They receive ongoing monitoring and daily screening. Visits to the group have also been put on hold until the quarantine period has lapsed," she said.
Van Reenen said they provide the courts with regular updates on the status of the remand detainees who have to appear in court.
"The delay in court matters is regrettable, however, the department has a responsibility to ensure that it plays its role in curbing the spread to the general community," she said.
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