The measles outbreak at the Johannesburg Prison is worsening by the day with around 20 more prisoners diagnosed with the highly infectious disease, just this weekend alone.

Those affected have been isolated while prison officials and inmates will be vaccinated from Monday.

Correctional Services Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula met authorities at the facility on Sunday. She announced a decision not to admit new inmates for the next few days.

The effort is part of a ten-day quarantine programne which starts on Monday.

Mapisa-Nqakula said alternative arrangements have been made.

"We are requesting the police at the Johannesburg Central Police Station to keep those people in holding cells. We are trying to take all steps to make sure we contain the spread of the disease," said the minister.

Eyewitness News

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