The Ministry of Health and Wellness in Jamaica raises alarms over a sharp rise in tuberculosis (TB) cases within state detention facilities, with Hunts Bay Police Station lockup in the Corporate Area drawing particular attention.
Deadly Outbreak at Hunts Bay
Two inmates at Hunts Bay Police Station have succumbed to TB between August 2024 and April 2026. Health records indicate more than 30 TB cases across Jamaica’s correctional and police detention facilities during this timeframe. Several other detainees at Hunts Bay currently receive treatment for the disease.
The first TB case surfaced at the facility in August 2024. By December 2024, officials confirmed 10 cases. From February to September 2025, another 14 cases emerged, including one fatality. Between January and April 2026, 11 additional cases appeared, marking a second death.
Key Facility of Concern
“Hunts Bay remains the facility of greatest concern,” Ministry of Health officials state. Authorities urge immediate action to address this escalating public health threat.
Underlying Causes
Overcrowding in detention centers contributes significantly to the spread, alongside poor ventilation. Delays in medical access further heighten transmission risks within cells. Suspected TB cases prompt transfers to the National Chest Hospital for isolation and treatment.
National Security Implications
Health Minister Christopher Tufton describes the situation as a matter of national security, public health, and institutional management, emphasizing the need for swift interventions.
