Preliminary investigations have revealed that the deaths of two inmates at the Galle Prison yesterday were due to Meningococcal disease, the Ministry of Health said.
According to the Health Ministry, investigations have found that the two inmates had died due to the infection of Meningococcus bacteria that can cause Meningococcal disease.
The Health Ministry further stated that a total of sixteen (16) inmates are currently receiving treatment for the infection.
Meanwhile, the Prisons Department said the two inmates who had died are remand prisoners. The two prisoners had died after suddenly falling ill yesterday.
The department stated that infected inmates have shown symptoms of fever and phlegm.
The Prisons Department added that the deceased inmates were among 1,023 prisoners placed at the Galle prison. (NewsWire)