Last Updated on May 12, 2026, 12:28 AM AST by Anthony Morris
The Ministry of Health Jamaica has expressed concern on the increased number of cases of tuberculosis (TB) in state detention facilities. The authorities have confirmed the concern is specially for Hunts Bay Police Station lockup in the Corporate Area.
At the Hunts Bay Police Station, Tuberculosis has claimed the lives of two inmates between the months of August 2024 and April 2026.
According to a report published by some local publications, the health ministry had recorded more than 30 TB cases in correctional and police detention facilities across Jamaica during the same period.
In addition to the dead individuals, several other detainees at Hunts Bay have been found affected by the disease and are currently undergoing treatment.
The health ministry said the first case of Tuberculosis at the Hunts Bay facility was identified in August 2024. By December 2024, the Ministry had confirmed a total of ten cases at the correctional facility.
Afterwards, Starting February 2025 to September 2025, the Ministry recorded another 14 cases of the infection, which included 1 death. Later still, the Ministry recorded another 11 cases and a second death was recorded between January and April this year.
“Hunts Bay remains the facility of greatest concern,” the Ministry of Health has confirmed during an interaction with the members of the media. The officials have shared that it is important for the administration to find a solution to this growing issue..
The Ministry of Health has warned that one of the reasons for this development may be overcrowding in the state detention facilities. Another reason for the increasing number of infections can be attributed to poor ventilation.
The patients may also face some delays in accessing medical care that have increased the risk of transmission within cells. Officials have confirmed that in the event that any inmates are suspected of having TB, they 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.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
