Measles Outbreak in El Paso: Cases Linked to ICE Detention Center

El Paso, Texas, is currently experiencing a measles outbreak, with seventeen cases reported as of February 26, 2026. A significant portion of these cases – thirteen – are linked to the Camp East Montana Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center, according to health officials.

Community vs. Detention Center Cases

Four measles cases have been identified within the city of El Paso itself, separate from the outbreak at the detention center. The cases at Camp East Montana are under federal jurisdiction and are being reported through federal authorities, while the El Paso Department of Public Health is coordinating with federal partners to provide testing support and vaccination efforts.

Concerns at Camp East Montana

U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar (D-El Paso) expressed that the measles outbreak at the ICE facility is not surprising. She attributes the situation to concerns regarding the operation of the facility by Acquisition Logistics, alleging a prioritization of profits over adherence to federal standards for medical care. Escobar has called for the closure of Camp East Montana and an investigation into Acquisition Logistics.

This is not the first health concern at Camp East Montana. Earlier in February, two cases of tuberculosis and eighteen cases of COVID-19 were identified at the facility, which is located on Fort Bliss. The ICE Health Services Corps has implemented quarantine measures for those suspected of exposure and has halted movement within the camp to control the spread of infection. According to a statement from Lauren Bis, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, medical staff are actively monitoring detainees and providing medical care.

Exposure Locations in El Paso

The four community cases in El Paso involve a man in his 20s, a man in his 30s, and two women in their 30s, all with unknown vaccination statuses. Public health officials have identified potential exposure locations between February 20 and February 22, including:

• Cici’s Pizza (615 N. Zaragoza) – Feb. 20, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
• The Apple Store in Cielo Vista Mall (8401 Gateway Blvd. West) – Feb. 20, 4:30 to 6:45 p.m.
• Del Sol Medical Center (10301 Gateway Blvd. West) – Feb. 20, 6 a.m. To 8 p.m.
• Outlet Mall (7051 S Desert Blvd.) – Feb. 20, 7 to 11 p.m.
• Outlet Mall (7051 S Desert Blvd.) – Feb. 21, 7 to 11 p.m.
• Good Luck Café (3813 Alameda) – Feb. 22, 8:30 to 11 a.m.
• Target-Bassett (6001 Gateway Blvd. West) – Feb. 22, 4 to 6:30 p.m.

Individuals who visited these locations during the specified times and develop symptoms such as fever or rash are advised to contact a healthcare provider.

Measles and Vaccination

Measles is a highly contagious disease spread through coughing and sneezing, and the virus can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that spreads from the head downward.

While approximately 98% of El Paso County residents are vaccinated against measles, unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals remain at the highest risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an immunization rate above 95% to prevent measles outbreaks. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is a required immunization for Texas school children.

Past Outbreaks and Current Efforts

El Paso had not experienced a measles outbreak since 1990 until six cases were reported in 2019. Last year, the city saw 59 cases during a statewide outbreak that affected Texas significantly. A previous outbreak in 2025 also spread to neighboring Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, with over 750 cases reported in Texas and over 4,500 in Chihuahua.

Where to Get Vaccinated

Walk-in immunization services are available at the following City of El Paso community clinics from 7:30 a.m. To noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday:

• Lower Valley Community Clinic, 9341 Alameda Ave.
• Henderson Community Clinic, 721 S. Mesa St.
• Northeast Community Clinic, 9566 Railroad Drive
• Westside Community Clinic, 7380 Remcon Circle

Appointments can be scheduled by calling 915-212-0200. A measles hotline is also available for information at 915-212-4357.