A measles outbreak at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in South Texas has led U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to halt all movement within the facility, which primarily houses undocumented families, including children. The outbreak was confirmed after two active measles infections were detected on Friday (January 31).
ICE immediately responded by quarantining all individuals who may have been exposed to the virus and suspending any internal transfers or releases while the situation is brought under control. A spokesperson, Tricia McLaughlin, stated that the ICE Health Services Corps “immediately took steps to quarantine and control further spread and infection,” and that medical teams are monitoring detainees’ health closely and providing necessary care. She added, “This is the best healthcare than many aliens have received in their entire lives.:
The Dilley center, which has drawn recent scrutiny for its conditions, currently holds many children and families in ICE custody. Five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father, whose detention drew national attention and protests, were released over the weekend following a court order and after both had been medically evaluated.
Health authorities say the two measles patients are in isolation and that additional precautions are in place to prevent further spread. Measles is highly contagious and typically spreads through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms include cough, fever, and a rash. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that measles was largely eradicated in the United States in 2000, but cases have increased recently due to declining vaccination rates. In 2025, there were 2,267 reported cases nationwide, with 762 in west Texas, resulting in two deaths and 99 hospitalizations, according to CDC data.
Following the outbreak, Texas Representative Joaquin Castro called for inspections of the Dilley facility. ICE has stated that detainees at Dilley receive comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health care while in custody.
The situation remains under close review, and ICE will maintain the quarantine and movement restrictions until health officials determine the outbreak is fully contained.
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