Sydney prison inmate tests positive to coronavirus

A correctional facility in Sydney's north-west has undergone forensic cleaning after an inmate tested positive to COVID-19.

The inmate had recently been in Victoria and was arrested and refused bail on July 26 for alleged driving offences.

He was taken to Surry Hills holding cells, then transferred to Parklea Correctional Centre.

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The inmate was kept in isolation the entire time and underwent mandatory coronavirus testing on arrival. This test came back positive.

"This is the first and only confirmed case of coronavirus among correctional inmates or staff at any NSW correctional facility," A Correctives Services spokeswoman told nine.com.au.

She said the inmate's family has been notified and preliminary contact tracing with staff and inmates has confirmed the inmate did not come into close contact with anyone else while in custody or during transport by NSW Police.

"At Parklea the inmate underwent mandatory COVID-19 testing and has been housed in isolation in Area 6B in accordance with standard protocols for COVID-19 infection control," the spokeswoman said.

Correctives Services NSW have isolation hubs set up to safely manage any positive COVID-19 cases that arise.