By Sonya Harvey

Visits to all adult and juvenile correctional institutions will be suspended for the next two weeks ending December 2.

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) says the precautionary measure follows confirmed cases of the influenza (H1N1) virus at the St. Catherine and Tower Street Adult Correctional Centres.

DCS adds that this suspension is necessary to prevent further spread of the virus and to safeguard the health and safety of inmates and staff in the facilities.

It states however, that drop-off of food by family members scheduled for this Wednesday, November 20, will proceed as planned as per established guidelines.

The DCS says it is monitoring the situation closely and is working with relevant ministries and agencies to manage and contain the spread of the virus.

Updates regarding the resumption of visits and any additional measures will be communicated as necessary.

The DCS announced yesterday that two inmates who experienced flu-like symptoms died at the Spanish Town Hospital at the weekend.