COVID-19 update for offenders and their families: October 25, 2020

This content is a message to federal offenders and their families from Correctional Service Canada's (CSC’s) Commissioner.

I know there is a lot going on with the current pandemic and wanted to remind you that getting a flu shot will help you stay healthy over the winter. When your institution lets you know that the influenza vaccine is available to you, I encourage you to get vaccinated. I will be getting my flu shot soon.

I mentioned last week that the number of COVID-19 cases has risen in some communities across the country. We continue to have no positive cases among inmates in our institutions.  However, given the high local community transmission in certain areas, some institutions have implemented additional measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

I wanted to explain in a bit more detail how we determine when to take extra precautions in our institutions. We closely monitor community transmission of COVID-19, and when a community is at, or above, 10 incident cases per 100,000 people per week, CSC holds a Management Early Response Committee meeting. This helps us determine which additional measures are needed to best prevent the entry of COVID-19 into a CSC facility. CSC’s Health Services works in close collaboration with the Public Health Agency of Canada and local public health authorities to inform this process.

At a few of our sites, we have taken additional measures such as requiring staff and inmates to wear medical masks and eye protection (such as shields or goggles). In some institutions, we have had to suspend visits as an added preventative measure. I know this is difficult on many of you. During this time, it is important that you continue to connect with your family and loved ones through video visitation and telephone. You can also speak to staff on-site if you need someone to talk to.

We continue to offer mass testing in institutions where there are higher rates of community transmission. If you are offered a test, please take it.  It helps us take actions to best protect you and others around you.

It is really important to keep up with the health and safety measures in place at all times, such as wearing your mask, washing or sanitizing your hands frequently, and physically distancing, as much as possible. If you experience any symptoms, please report them to Health Services.

Thank you for your ongoing collaboration and doing your part.