Human rights lobby group, Jamaicans For Justice, (JFJ) has expressed concern about the outbreak of tuberculosis at the Hunts Bay Police lock up in St. Andrew as well as an influenza outbreak at some correctional facilities.

The Department of Correctional Services DCS has confirmed an outbreak of the flu at the St. Catherine and Tower Street Adult Correctional Centres.

On Sunday it said two inmates who experienced flu-like symptoms died at the Spanish Town Hospital at the weekend.

As a result, the DCS said visits to all adult and juvenile correctional institutions will be suspended for the next two weeks ending December 2.

Meanwhile, the Jamaica Constabulary Force said it is working alongside its public health partners to manage an outbreak of tuberculosis at the Hunts Bay lock-up.

It said there are seven inmates receiving treatment at the lock-up, while five others are undergoing treatment at a hospital under police guard.

Reacting to the reports, JFJ’s Executive Director, Mickel Jackson, expressed concern that Jamaica’s correctional system is in crisis due to significant overcrowding, and poor sanitation and ventilation.

She said the issues must be addressed.

In the meantime, advocacy group, Stand Up for Jamaica has also expressed concern about the outbreaks.

Executive director, Carla Gullotta emphasized the importance of precautionary measures in preventing a further spread.