Full Breakdown
Measles Outbreak in El Paso: Current Situation and Health Response
2/28/2026, 1:43:27 AM
Overview of the Outbreak
Seventeen cases of measles have been reported in El Paso, Texas, with thirteen of these cases linked to the Camp East Montana Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center. The El Paso Department of Public Health announced these figures on Thursday, noting that the cases at the detention facility fall under federal jurisdiction and are reported through federal authorities. In addition to the measles cases, earlier this month, the facility reported two cases of tuberculosis and 18 cases of COVID-19.
Health Response and Community Impact
The El Paso Department of Public Health is actively coordinating with federal partners to provide testing and vaccination support to mitigate the outbreak. Health officials have identified several public locations where potential exposure may have occurred between February 20 and February 22, including Cielo Vista Mall, Del Sol Medical Center, and Target Bassett. Individuals who visited these sites during the specified times and develop symptoms such as fever or rash are advised to contact a healthcare provider.
Despite approximately 98% of El Paso County residents being vaccinated against measles, unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals remain at higher risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that a community maintain an immunization rate above 95% to effectively prevent the spread of measles.
Historical Context
El Paso has not experienced a measles outbreak since 1990, with the last significant outbreak occurring in 2019 when six cases were reported. In 2022, the region saw a total of 59 cases, coinciding with Texas's worst measles outbreak in nearly three decades. The current outbreak follows a larger regional outbreak that began in April 2025, which affected over 750 individuals in Texas and more than 4,500 in neighboring Chihuahua, Mexico. Texas health authorities declared that outbreak over in August 2025, while Mexican authorities did so in February 2026.
Vaccination Efforts
In response to the current outbreak, the El Paso Department of Public Health is offering the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine at various community clinics. Vaccination is available on a walk-in basis, and appointments can be scheduled by calling (915) 212-0200. The clinics are open Monday through Friday, with specific locations including the Lower Valley Community Clinic and the Henderson Community Clinic.
Criticism & Opposition
Some community members have expressed concerns regarding the vaccination rates and the potential for further outbreaks, particularly among young adults who are often the most affected demographic. Health officials emphasize the importance of reviewing vaccination records and ensuring that individuals are up to date with their immunizations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Individuals who visited those sites and develop symptoms such as fever or rash should contact a health care provider.” — El Paso Department of Public Health
- “Residents, particularly young adults, are encouraged to review their vaccination records and schedule immunization if their status is uncertain.” — El Paso Department of Public Health
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in El Paso highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining high vaccination rates and the importance of public health coordination in response to infectious disease threats. As health officials work to contain the outbreak, community awareness and vaccination efforts remain critical in preventing further spread of the virus.
