COVID-19 outbreak at Headingley Correctional Centre

File image

WINNIPEG — Health officials in Manitoba have declared a COVID-19 outbreak at the Headingley Correctional Centre.

Dr. Brent Roussin, the province's chief provincial public health officer, made the announcement on Tuesday.

He said the centre has been moved to critical (red) on the province's pandemic response system.

"There are currently seven inmates and two staff (who have COVID-19), and approximately 150 inmates self-isolating," said Roussin.

He added the cases are linked to a previous case in a staff member.

Roussin said the facility is already taking steps to mitigate the risk of spreading COVID-19, including separating contacts and cases from the rest of the population.

Visitation has also been stopped as well as any transfers or new admissions.

Roussin added extra PPE usage will also be in place.

"These measures are expected to be in effect for one incubation period since the last case has been identified."

Nahanni Fontaine, who is an NDP MLA for St. Johns and the critic for justice, said there has not been a concrete plan for staff at correctional facilities in the province, nor for the inmates who are housed there.

"The consequence of that is what we see now," said Fontaine. "Some might suggest it's just a matter of time before we see outbreaks at other facilities on a greater scale."

She said she wants to see a robust plan that focuses on proper PPE for staff and inmates, and to also have better training for staff.

She also said she wants an evaluation of the other facilities in Manitoba before outbreaks could happen there.