El Paso, Texas is confronting a measles outbreak, with 17 cases reported as of Thursday, February 27, 2026. A significant portion of these cases – 13 in total – are centered at the Camp East Montana Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center, raising concerns about health conditions within the facility and potential community spread of the highly contagious virus. Public health officials are working to contain the outbreak, but the situation highlights ongoing challenges related to infectious disease control in congregate settings.
The four additional cases identified within the El Paso community are not linked to the outbreak at Camp East Montana, according to city spokesperson Laura Cruz-Acosta. But, the concentration of cases at the detention center has prompted scrutiny from local and federal officials. The cases occurring within the ICE facility are under the jurisdiction of federal authorities, and the El Paso Department of Public Health is coordinating with its federal partners to provide testing and vaccination support.
Outbreak at Camp East Montana Fuels Concerns
U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar (D-El Paso) expressed strong criticism of the conditions at Camp East Montana, stating the measles outbreak is a predictable consequence of prioritizing profits over adequate medical care. “This public health crisis is a direct result of the manner in which Acquisition Logistics operates the facility: an explicit effort to maximize profits at the expense of federal standards for services such as medical attention,” Escobar said. She called for the facility to be shut down and for Acquisition Logistics to be investigated, arguing the private prison corporation does not prioritize the well-being of detainees or the community.
This outbreak is not occurring in isolation. Earlier in February, two cases of tuberculosis and 18 cases of COVID-19 were identified at the same ICE detention center, located on Fort Bliss. These prior infections underscore a pattern of health concerns within the facility. In response to the measles outbreak, the ICE Health Services Corps has quarantined individuals suspected of exposure and halted movement within Camp East Montana to limit further transmission, according to Lauren Bis, deputy assistant secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
“Medical staff is continuing to monitor the detainees’ conditions and will take appropriate and active steps to prevent further infection. All detainees are being provided with proper medical care,” Bis stated.
Community Exposure and Vaccination Efforts
Beyond the detention center, four cases of measles have been confirmed within the El Paso community. These cases involve a man in his 20s, a man in his 30s, and two women in their 30s, all with currently unknown vaccination statuses. 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 develop symptoms – such as fever and rash – are urged to contact a healthcare provider.
Public health officials are actively conducting contact tracing and collaborating with community partners to prevent further spread. While approximately 98% of El Paso County residents are vaccinated against measles, officials emphasize that unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals remain at the highest risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a vaccination rate above 95% to achieve herd immunity and prevent measles outbreaks. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a required immunization for school children in Texas.
A History of Outbreaks and Rising Immunization Rates
El Paso hadn’t experienced a measles outbreak since 1990 until six cases were reported in 2019 at El Paso and Fort Bliss. Last year, the city saw a significant increase, with 59 cases reported during a period when Texas experienced its worst measles outbreak in nearly 30 years, according to state health department data. The West Texas outbreak in April 2025 extended into El Paso and neighboring Ciudad Juárez, resulting in over 750 cases in Texas and more than 4,500 cases in Chihuahua. While Texas declared its outbreak over in August 2025, Mexico followed suit in February 2026.
Previous outbreaks have disproportionately affected young adults, and the current cases as well involve individuals in this age group. Health officials encourage residents with uncertain vaccination histories to receive the MMR vaccine, which provides approximately 97% protection after two doses.
Measles Immunizations Available in El Paso
The city of El Paso is offering walk-in immunization services from 7:30 a.m. To noon and from 1 to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the following community clinics:
- 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 also be scheduled by calling 915-212-0200. A measles hotline has been activated to provide information about symptoms, vaccination, and potential exposure: 915-212-4357.
The ongoing situation at Camp East Montana and within the broader El Paso community underscores the importance of vaccination and proactive public health measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Health officials will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they develop into available. The next update from the El Paso Department of Public Health regarding case numbers and containment efforts is expected early next week.
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