Immigration Detention Camp in Texas Closed to Visitors Amid Measles Outbreak

Congressman says 14 active measles cases at Fort Bliss facility, 112 people isolated

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A large immigration detention camp in Texas has been closed to visitors and attorneys due to a measles outbreak, with 14 active cases and 112 people being isolated, according to U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar. The camp, known as Camp East Montana, will remain closed to visitors and attorneys until at least March 19 or March 20.

Why it matters

The closure of the detention camp to visitors and attorneys raises concerns about detainees' access to legal representation and medical care during the measles outbreak. Immigration detention facilities have faced longstanding criticism over poor living conditions and inadequate healthcare.

The details

The immigration detention camp is located on the Fort Bliss Army base in El Paso, Texas. It opened last year after the Trump administration awarded a contract worth up to $1.3 billion to a Virginia contractor. Detainees have previously described the camp as having loud and unsanitary quarters where diseases spread easily and sleep is difficult.

  • The camp will remain closed to visitors and attorneys until at least March 19 or March 20.

The players

Veronica Escobar

A U.S. Representative from Texas whose district includes the Fort Bliss immigration detention camp.

Acquisition Logistics LLC

A Virginia contractor that was awarded a contract worth up to $1.3 billion to operate the immigration detention camp.

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What they’re saying

“While on one hand, it is a good thing that the measles outbreak is being taken seriously, on the other hand, I am alarmed that a preventable crisis has created conditions where detainees can only access their lawyers virtually.”

— Veronica Escobar, U.S. Representative (ksgf.com)

What’s next

The judge overseeing the detention camp will determine when the facility can reopen to visitors and attorneys.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges and concerns around the living conditions and healthcare access in immigration detention facilities, especially during public health crises like disease outbreaks.