Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Sarah Vesty

Scots jail remains locked down after major Covid outbreak as 117 inmates test positive

Prisoners at HMP Perth remain locked down after a major coronavirus outbreak was identified.

The total number of inmates who have tested positive for the virus now sits at 117 while everyone - 645 people - self-isolate as a precaution.

Mass testing is underway while prison chiefs say they are working closely with Public Health officials in a bid to stop any further spread.

All visits from family and solicitors have been cancelled however prisoners still have access to their mobile phones and open air time.

HMP Perth remains locked down (Perthshire Advertiser)

A statement from the Scottish Prison Service said: “There are currently 117 confirmed cases of COVID amongst those in our care at HMP Perth.

“A significant number of these individuals are asymptomatic positives.

“As a precautionary measure, all individuals living in HMP Perth are currently isolating whilst mass testing is carried out. This is ongoing.

“This means that those in custody do not have access to courts or agents visits, family visits or the gymnasium.

“Individuals have access to open air and showers, as well as their mobile phones and the hall phones.

“We continue to work closely with Public Health colleagues in the relevant health boards in managing these cases.”

There are currently 645 prisoners across the entire prison estate who are self-isolating with positive cases identified at four jails.

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.