Measles Resurgence in El Paso: A Public Health Concern
El Paso is currently facing a measles outbreak, with 17 cases reported as of Thursday, February 26, 2026. A significant portion of these cases – 13 – are linked to the Camp East Montana Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility. This outbreak underscores growing concerns about public health within detention centers and the potential for community spread.
The Situation at Camp East Montana
The measles cases at Camp East Montana are being managed by federal authorities, as the facility falls outside the jurisdiction of the city of El Paso. The ICE Health Services Corps has implemented quarantine measures for those suspected of contact with infected individuals and halted all movement within the facility to limit further transmission. Detainees are reportedly receiving medical care.
This isn’t an isolated incident at the facility. Earlier in February, two cases of tuberculosis and 18 cases of COVID-19 were identified at Camp East Montana, raising questions about health conditions within the detention center.
Community Cases and Exposure Locations
Four additional measles cases have been identified within the El Paso community. These cases are not connected to the outbreak at Camp East Montana. Public health officials have identified potential exposure locations between February 20 and February 22, including Cielo Vista Mall, Del Sol Medical Center, the Outlet Shoppes at El Paso, Target Bassett and several restaurants. Individuals who visited these locations and experience symptoms like fever or rash are urged to contact a healthcare provider.
Political Response and Concerns
U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-El Paso) has expressed that the outbreak at the ICE facility is not surprising. She attributes the situation to Acquisition Logistics’ operation of the facility, alleging a prioritization of profits over adherence to federal standards for medical attention. Escobar is calling for the facility to be shut down and for Acquisition Logistics to be investigated.
Vaccination Rates and Herd Immunity
Despite approximately 98% of El Paso County residents being vaccinated against measles, public health officials emphasize that unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals remain most vulnerable. A community immunization rate above 95% is necessary to prevent measles outbreaks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
El Paso’s kindergarten immunization rates for MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) saw an increase last school year, and the county’s overall vaccination rates are comparatively higher than other major counties in Texas.
Recent History of Measles in El Paso
El Paso hadn’t experienced a measles outbreak since 1990 until six cases were reported in 2019. Last year, the city saw 59 cases during Texas’s worst measles outbreak in nearly 30 years. The West Texas outbreak spread to El Paso and neighboring Ciudad Juárez in April 2025, resulting in over 750 cases in Texas and more than 4,500 in Chihuahua.
Young adults were significantly affected in the previous outbreak, and the current cases as well involve individuals in that age group.
Where to Get Vaccinated in El Paso
Walk-in immunization services are available at the following city 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.
FAQ: Measles in El Paso
Q: What are the symptoms of measles?
A: Measles typically begins with fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a rash that spreads from the head downward.
Q: How is measles spread?
A: Measles spreads through coughing and sneezing and can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Q: How effective is the MMR vaccine?
A: The MMR vaccine provides about 97% protection after two doses.
Q: What should I do if I consider I’ve been exposed?
A: Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you develop symptoms after potential exposure.
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