U.S. Authorities have temporarily restricted visits to the nation’s largest migrant detention center in El Paso, Texas, following the detection of at least 14 cases of measles. The move highlights the potential for infectious disease outbreaks within crowded detention facilities and underscores ongoing public health challenges.
Camp East Montana, a large complex of tents with a capacity of approximately 5,000 detainees, will remain closed to visitors until mid-March, according to a statement from Representative Verónica Escobar. The temporary closure aims to curb further spread of the highly contagious virus.
At least 112 migrants currently held at the facility are reported to be in isolation, Representative Escobar detailed. She also expressed concern over observations made during recent visits, noting that staff were not consistently using masks or other protective measures to prevent the transmission of infections.
Escobar further indicated that medical care at the center is often inadequate, with “serious medical issues” sometimes being overlooked “even in urgent health situations.” This raises concerns about the quality of healthcare provided to migrants in detention.
The measles outbreak comes amid increasing criticism and reports from Democratic lawmakers and human rights organizations regarding conditions at migrant detention centers, particularly in Texas. The situation underscores the vulnerability of detained populations to infectious diseases.
What we have is the second reported outbreak of a highly contagious illness at Camp East Montana this year. Earlier this month, at least two individuals were diagnosed with tuberculosis. These incidents raise questions about preventative health measures and infection control protocols at the facility.
Three deaths have occurred at the center so far this year: one by suicide, another due to kidney failure, and a third following an “homicide” during an altercation with staff, according to official reports and media leaks. These incidents add to the scrutiny surrounding the facility’s operations, and safety.
Under the current Republican administration, migrant detentions in the U.S. Reached record levels in January, with more than 73,000 migrants held – the highest number since the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was created in 2001, according to leaked data reported by CBS News.
Last year was the deadliest year in at least two decades for individuals in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with over 30 deaths reported. These statistics highlight the risks faced by migrants in detention and the need for improved oversight and care.
