KINGSTON, Jamaica— The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has suspended visits to all adult and juvenile correctional institutions across the island following confirmed cases of the Influenza A (H1N1) virus, also known as swine flu, at two correctional centres.

DCS shared the advisory on social media on Tuesday, stating that the closure will remain in effect until December 2, 2024.

The precautionary measure was implemented after cases of the virus were found at the St Catherine Adult Correctional Centre and the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre, DCS said.

It added however that food drop-off by family members scheduled for Wednesday, November 20, will proceed as planned, as per established guidelines.

“This suspension is necessary to prevent further spread of the virus and to safeguard the health and safety of inmates and staff within the facilities,” DCS said.

DCS stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to work with the relevant ministries and agencies to manage and contain the spread of the virus.

Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, cough, sore throat, running and stuffy nose, muscle aches and extreme tiredness. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may also occur, but are more common in children.