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Five individuals incarcerated at the Luna County Detention Center in Deming, New Mexico, have tested positive for measles, according to the state health department. The outbreak, announced Thursday, marks a concerning development as measles continues to spread across the state and the nation.
The Luna County Detention Center, which houses approximately 400 inmates and employs around 100 staff members, is now under heightened health surveillance. State health officials are actively assessing the vaccination status of both inmates and staff, distributing testing kits, and supplying additional medical equipment to contain the outbreak.
The first signs of illness among inmates appeared about a week ago, according to facility warden Pablo Montoya. All five affected individuals have been isolated, in-person visitation has been suspended, and court proceedings have shifted to virtual formats to prevent further transmission.
This outbreak comes amid a broader resurgence of measles in New Mexico. Since February, the state has reported a sharp rise in cases, with the total climbing from 81 on Tuesday to 86 as of Thursday. The outbreak initially began in Lea County, neighboring Texas, which itself has experienced a significant surge with 750 reported cases since late January.
The United States has documented 1,227 measles cases so far this year, with ongoing outbreaks in 12 states. New Mexico has also seen a substantial increase in measles vaccinations, administering over 37,000 doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine since February—nearly double the amount given during the same period last year.
Dr. Chad Smelser, a medical epidemiologist with the New Mexico Department of Health, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, urging all residents—especially those in Luna County—to ensure they are vaccinated. Health officials recently detected measles in the wastewater system of Deming, indicating ongoing community transmission.
Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease. Symptoms typically begin with respiratory issues, followed by fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash. While most children recover, measles can cause severe complications, including pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and even death. The MMR vaccine is considered 97% effective after two doses and is routinely recommended for children in the United States.
“The cases at Luna Detention are a reminder that the outbreak in New Mexico is not over,” Dr. Smelser stated. “We urge everyone in New Mexico, especially in Luna County, to ensure they are vaccinated against measles.”
Disclaimer
This article is based on information reported by the Associated Press and public health authorities as of June 27, 2025. Details may change as new information emerges. For the latest updates and medical advice, consult official health department resources.
