Swine flu stops visits at state prisons

Inmate visits at the state’s 28 correctional institutions have been canceled until further notice due to concerns about swine flu, according to the state Department of Corrections.

Citing a number of probable cases of H1N1 in South Carolina, DOC officials consulted with the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control, who advised that limiting visitation could help protect inmates with weakened physical health with a higher susceptibility to contract the flu.

Regionally, Turbeville Correctional Institution, Lee Correctional Institution in Bishopville, and Wateree River Correctional Institution in Rembert are effected and will see no visitors.

There are no suspected cases of swine flu within the corrections systems, according to the DOC.