The Northwestern Health Unit would like to see more COVID-19 testing done at the Kenora Jail.
Two inmates who recently tested positive did not show any symptoms,
Acting Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Ian Gemmill says current testing is strictly voluntary.
He notes they tested only once and about a quarter of the population participated.
“I think the uptake among the inmates was under 120 inmates in this jail and about 25 took up the offer of testing. I don’t know the amount for staff. It wasn’t 100% for sure.”
Dr. Gemmill says the two people who tested positive are now isolated and there are safety protocols in place to ensure the virus doesn’t spread.
“Staff have all been issued protective equipment, so masks and so on. I think eye goggles as well if I’m not mistaken. They got some face protection. Any of the inmates will be asked to wear masks when they are out of their cells.”
He says in the case of the Wabaseemoong First Nation resident who tested positive, he travelled to Thunder Bay, became ill, and the COVID-19 testing was done.
