KINGSTON – The Ministry of Health in Jamaica has expressed grave concern over the spread of tuberculosis (TB) in state detention facilities, particularly at the Hunts Bay Police Station lock-up in the Corporate Area, where two inmates have died from the disease between August 2024 and April 2026.
According to a report published by Jamaica Gleaner, more than 30 TB cases have also been recorded in correctional and police detention facilities across Jamaica during the same period.
Several detainees at Hunts Bay are currently undergoing treatment.
The health ministry said the first case at the Hunts Bay facility was identified in August 2024. By December that year, ten cases had been confirmed.
Between February and September 2025, another 14 cases were identified, including one death, while 11 additional cases and a second death were recorded between January and April this year.
“Hunts Bay remains the facility of greatest concern,” the ministry said in response to questions from the Sunday Gleaner.
The ministry warned that overcrowding, poor ventilation and delays in accessing medical care have increased the risk of transmission within cells. Officials said inmates suspected of having TB are generally transferred to the National Chest Hospital for treatment and isolation.
Health Minister Christopher Tufton described the issue as one involving national security, public health and institutional management.
Tuberculosis is a bacterial disease that primarily affects the lungs and spreads through the air when infected persons cough, sneeze, speak or sing. (CMC)
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