**** Justice Media Release
COVID Cases Reported at Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility
———————————————————————————————————————
Thirty-one adults in custody at the Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility in Dartmouth tested positive for COVID-19. None of the confirmed cases are in hospital. Several staff at the facility have also tested positive and are self-isolating.
Correctional Services are working closely with Public Health to maintain a safe environment for persons in custody and staff in the facility.
Measures are in place to minimize the spread of the virus, including distribution of medical masks, restrictions on movement through the facility, increased cleaning and disinfecting. The situation is being monitored closely and assessed daily.
The facility remains closed for all in-person visits. Options are available so those in custody can connect with family, legal counsel and other supports.
Correctional Services has a comprehensive COVID-19 prevention and management plan in place. Admissions and releases continue to be effectively managed at the correctional facilities, which have been taking place since the beginning of the pandemic. Eligible inmates are considered for early release following established protocols.
There are no other confirmed cases involving persons in custody at other provincial correctional facilities.
Quick Facts:
— as part of the admissions process, every individual remanded or sentenced into custody is tested and stays in isolation until approved by Nova Scotia Health Authority staff to be moved into another area of the facility
— public health continues to make vaccines available to inmates. Regular testing for COVID-19 is offered to both inmates and staff
— all active correctional officers and youth workers are fully vaccinated
— as of December 29 there were 233 adults in custody at the Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility
— there are no positive cases in the facility’s female unit
