Measles outbreak spreads after five detainees test positive in New Mexico

In New Mexico, a measles outbreak has been reported at the Luna County Detention Center in Deming, affecting five incarcerated individuals. This outbreak is part of a larger trend in the state, where measles cases have surged since February. The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has confirmed that the total number of measles cases in the state has risen to 86. Health officials are currently assessing the vaccination status of detainees and staff at the facility, which houses about 400 detainees and employs roughly 100 staff members. The outbreak's origins can be traced back to earlier cases in the state, with a sharp rise in measles infections since the beginning of 2025. With a majority of confirmed cases occurring in Lea County, adjacent to the site of an earlier, larger outbreak in Texas, health officials have reported increased vaccination efforts. As of now, over 37,500 doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine have been administered to combat the spread of the disease, compared to just over 19,000 doses during the same period last year. New Mexico health authorities are reaching out to residents, particularly in Luna County, urging them to ensure that they are fully vaccinated against measles. Consequences of this outbreak could be dire as measles is highly contagious and can lead to severe health complications, especially among unvaccinated individuals. Notably, one death attributed to the recent measles outbreaks occurred in March when an unvaccinated adult failed to seek medical attention. Additionally, the presence of the virus in Deming’s wastewater system signals ongoing transmission within the community. Medical experts indicate that an effective response is crucial as the disease can spread quickly in closed environments like detention centers. As a precautionary measure, all in-person visits have been suspended, and court hearings will take place virtually to limit potential further spread of the virus. The New Mexico Department of Health continues to collaborate with staff at the detention center, providing personal protective equipment and test kits while monitoring the ongoing situation closely.