Four studies in Canada, including in Saskatchewan, will look at COVID-19 antibodies among correctional populations. The studies will consider both employees and those who are incarcerated, except in Saskatchewan where only the incarcerated will be involved. The research is being done to help the COVID-19 Immunity Task Force better understand how many people in these facilities have had COVID-19 and will help inform planning for the need for vaccine follow-up in these settings.

Doctor Alexander Wong of the University of Saskatchewan will be the principal Investigator of the Saskatchewan study. He says, “The stigma of having a positive COVID-19 antibody test in a correctional facility is considerable, so significant efforts are being made to ensure that results remain confidential.”
Heather Scriver, Saskatchewan’s Assistant Deputy Minister of Custody, Supervision and Rehabilitation Services says, “We want to protect the health and safety of individuals who are incarcerated and who are working in these congregate settings,” and, “The study will provide valuable information about any changes that may assist our programming in Saskatchewan.”