Coronavirus in Scotland: Two prisoners test positive for Covid-19

Justive Minister said prison service was ‘well prepared for situation’.

Two Scottish prisoners have tested positive for coronavirus, Justice Minister Humza Yousaf has revealed.

Both are inmates at HMP Kilmarnock.

Justice Minister Humza Yousaf said the outbreak was at HMP Kilmarnock. Picture: JPIMedia/GoogleMaps

Mr Yousaf posted on Twitter this afternoon: “Two prisoners in our care have tested positive for COVID-19, both in HMP Kilmarnock.

“Scottish Prison Service (SPS) are working with Health Protection Scot & NHS to ensure appropriate care.

“Currently, affected prisoners don't require hospital treatment. Priority is safety of our staff & those in our care.”

He added: “SPS are well prepared for this situation. They have a National Pandemic Plan in place & following Public Health Guidance.

“Where possible, we want prisoners to be able to maintain family contact, clearly we will be guided by public health advice.”

A SPS spokeswoman said there were no restrictions on movement and prison visits were continuing as usual.

Any prisoners showing symptoms of Covid-19 are to self-isolate in their cell for seven days.

She added: “We are working closely with Health Protection Scotland and NHS colleagues to support those in our care and are following their advice.

“Clinically-led protocols for the management and care of those who contract Covid-19 are in place and advice and guidance about steps which should be taken to prevent the spread of Covid-19 have already been issued to staff and those in our care.

“At this time there are no restrictions on movement in place therefore establishments are continuing to operate visits as normal.

“Anyone within our care who is presenting with symptoms of Covid-19 is required to self-isolate within their cell for seven days.

“Those who are self-isolating still have access to food and medication and we are working on ways to maintain communication with friends and family.”