Matara Prison Outbreak: Eight More Hospitalized, Activities Restricted

Eight more inmates of Matara prison have been hospitalized, raising the total number receiving treatment for a suspected brain fever outbreak to 16. 

Two individuals are currently in intensive care unit, and one inmate has already lost their life to the illness.

Following health guidelines, prison activities have been curtailed to minimize inmate interaction and potential transmission.

New inmates at Matara prison are being redirected to Agunukolapalassa Prison to help manage the situation at the affected facility.

Prison visits have been restricted.

The deceased inmate, a 30-year-old resident of the Akuressa, was being held on suspicion of murder. He passed away while receiving treatment in the intensive care unit of the Matara General Hospital.

The Prison Department urges both inmates and visitors to exercise caution and cooperate with the implemented measures to effectively control the outbreak and ensure everyone's safety.