COVID-19 outbreak hits Mission Institution as 97 inmates test positive

MISSION — A COVID-19 outbreak has hit Mission Institution, a medium-security facility, where 97 inmates have tested positive for the infectious virus.

The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) reported the outbreak Wednesday afternoon (Oct. 19) and stresses that the health and safety of its employees, inmates, and the public continue to be the agency’s top priority. Staff are closely monitoring the situation, and measures are in place to minimize spread of the virus within the institution.

COVID-19 testing is being offered to inmates and staff. The number of inmate active cases currently reported for this prison is based on either rapid tests or PCR tests. The number may change as more testing is conducted and laboratory-confirmed results are available. Inmate testing numbers are updated weekly on our website.

CSC continue to apply and reinforce infection prevention and control measures to prevent and contain the spread of COVID-19, and adapt based on public health advice. All staff are provided with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including gowns, gloves, medical masks, respirators, and face shields. All inmates are provided medical masks and are encouraged to wear them at all times when not in their cells. Enhanced cleaning and disinfection throughout the site is continuing.