WINNIPEG -- The province confirmed Sunday that staff members at three Manitoba jails have tested positive for COVID-19.
The facilities are Headingley Correctional Institution, Milner Ridge Correctional Centre and the Winnipeg Remand Centre.
A provincial spokesperson said in a statement to CTV News that a “small number” of workers are infected and the risk is low.
“Work is underway to conduct public health investigations and determine close contacts. In addition work is underway to test inmates who may have been exposed,” said the spokesperson.
No COVID-19 outbreaks have been declared at Manitoba correctional facilities.
Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union which represents staff at the three provincial jails said it is monitoring the situation.
“Obviously this is concerning to us, but this virus has no boundaries and silently attacks,” said MGEU president Michelle Gawronsky in an email to CTV News.
“Staff at our correctional facilities are wearing PPE and are doing everything they can to ensure enhanced cleaning, sanitization and social distancing as much as possible,” she said.
