15 inmates isolated over coronavirus infection

MANILA, Philippines — The Quezon City Jail has isolated 15 inmates as a precautionary measure after they came in contact with an inmate who died of suspected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection last week.

An official of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) said they are coordinating with the Department of Health (DOH) and Quezon City government for the inmates to be tested for COVID-19.

BJMP spokesman Xavier Solda said the inmate suffered from myocardial infarction, but his death certificate stated “possible COVID-19 infection” on March 25. 

The inmate’s remains were cremated shortly after he died in the hospital, Solda said.

Solda said they immediately conducted contact tracing and quarantined the detainees held in the same jail cell with the deceased inmate.

He said the other inmates have not shown symptoms of the viral respiratory disease.

Solda said there is no cause for alarm regarding COVID-19 infection in the congested jail, which accommodates around 3,800 inmates. 

“As far as the BJMP is concerned, we are strictly implementing precautionary measures to ensure the safety of our personnel and the inmates,” he said.

Solda said a paralegal officer of the BJMP has tested positive for COVID-19.

The BJMP has placed its facilities nationwide on lockdown, with visitations suspended during the enhanced community quarantine.