Cape Town – At least seven cases of Diphtheria have been confirmed at the Pollsmoor Correctional Centre prompting the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) to implement robust prevention and control measures to curb the potential spread of the disease.
“This action follows seven laboratory-confirmed cases of Diphtheria,” DCS Spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said Thursday, (19 December 2024).
“Contact tracing efforts have been initiated after a Diphtheria case was confirmed at Tygerberg Hospital involving a former inmate,”
“These efforts aim to identify individuals who may have been exposed to the seven infected inmates.
“To date, a total of 44 inmates have been isolated, and baseline assessments are ongoing.”
Nxumalo said recognising the unique risks posed by communal living environments, the DCS has adopted a comprehensive approach to mitigate the spread of the disease within correctional facilities.
“A Diphtheria outbreak in such a setting demands a coordinated and thorough response to contain the spread and ensure appropriate medical care for affected individuals,” said Nxumalo.
“The health and well-being of incarcerated individuals, staff members, and the surrounding community remain our top priority.
“As such, we are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment within our correctional facilities.”
Nxumalo said healthcare professionals were rendering care services to the affected inmates.
“In addition, the Department of Health is collaborating closely with DCS to ensure a unified and effective response plan,” he said.
To enhance early detection and containment, inmates and staff members will undergo health screenings for potential cases.
This proactive approach will help prevent the spread of the disease and prepare us to address new infections, should they arise.
Health education initiatives were being intensified to inform inmates, officials, and service providers about Diphtheria symptoms, the importance of vaccination, and preventive measures.
“As a Department, we are monitoring the situation, and infection prevention protocols are being enforced for all individuals within the correctional facility,” said Nxumalo.
“These will also apply to those visiting the facility.”
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that usually affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat.
Diphtheria can be treated with medications. But in advanced stages, diphtheria can damage the heart, kidneys and nervous system.
Even with treatment, diphtheria can be deadly, especially in children.
