The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has confirmed an increase in the number of inmates experiencing flu-like symptoms, primarily at the St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre, following reports of a mystery illness affecting two correctional facilities.

In a statement issued this morning, the DCS explained that interim measures have been put in place, including isolating affected inmates, restricting movement, and mandating the wearing of masks.

The department also stated that its medical team is conducting tests to identify the illness.

The DCS emphasized that it continues to follow the appropriate medical protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of both staff and inmates at its facilities.

Meantime, human rights lobby group Stand Up For Jamaica is calling on the Health Ministry to assist in dealing with an outbreak believed to be impacting at least two correctional facilities.

The lobby group says it has received reports of inmates at the St. Catherine Correctional Centre and Tower Street facility in Kingston, presenting with flu-like symptoms.

Executive Director of Stand Up For Jamaica, Carla Gullotta, says in some cases, the symptoms appear to be severe.

Expressing concern about the safety of inmates and correctional officers, Mrs. Gullotta says she is urging the Health Ministry to intervene and provide support, especially with isolation.