Measles Outbreak Hits Texas Detention Center, ICE Halts Movement
A measles outbreak has struck a detention center in south Texas, prompting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to halt all movement within the facility. The outbreak, which was confirmed on Friday, has left medical officials scrambling to contain the spread of the highly contagious disease.Measles Cases Confirmed at Dilley Detention Center
According to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), two detainees at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in south Texas have been confirmed to have active measles infections. The facility, which houses parents and children taken into federal custody over alleged immigration law violations, is located roughly an hour's drive from San Antonio.
ICE Takes Swift Action to Contain Outbreak
In response to the outbreak, ICE Health Services Corps immediately took steps to quarantine and control further spread of the infection. All movement within the facility was ceased, and individuals suspected of making contact with the infected were quarantined. Medical officials are monitoring detainees and taking 'appropriate and active steps' to prevent further infection.
Detainees Receive Proper Medical Care
Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin emphasized that all detainees are being provided with proper medical care, including monitoring by medical officials. The statement from DHS also noted that 'all individuals suspected of making contact with the infected' were quarantined to prevent further spread of the disease.
The measles outbreak at the Dilley detention center highlights the ongoing challenges faced by immigration facilities in maintaining public health and safety. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how ICE will address the outbreak and ensure the well-being of detainees. One thing is clear: the swift action taken by medical officials has prevented further spread of the disease, at least for now.
