Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has implemented a complete lockdown at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in Texas following a measles outbreak, authorities revealed on Sunday.
The Department of Homeland Security reported that two detainees were diagnosed with measles on Saturday. This coincided with the release of a 5-year-old boy and his father from the center, a case that had previously caused significant public concern.
“On January 31, 2026, two cases of active measles were confirmed among detainees at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center by the Texas Department of State Health Services,” stated Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.
McLaughlin further explained that ICE health officials are actively working to isolate those affected until the outbreak is managed.
On the same day, Rep. Joaquin Castro escorted 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father out of the ICE detention facility in Dilley, Texas, on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026. (Joaquin Castro)
“The ICE Health Services Corps swiftly initiated quarantine protocols to prevent further transmission and infection, halting all facility movement and isolating anyone who might have been exposed,” McLaughlin added.
“Medical staff is continuing to monitor the detainees’ conditions and will take appropriate and active steps to prevent further infection. All detainees are being provided with proper medical care.”
Federal officials announced Sunday that an ICE facility in Texas found two cases of measles. (istock/Tami Chappell)
Despite the reported cases, officials emphasized that the facility provides comprehensive health care, surpassing what many immigrants had previously received.
“It is a longstanding practice to provide comprehensive medical care from the moment an alien enters ICE custody,” McLaughlin said. “This includes medical, dental, and mental health services as available, and access to medical appointments and 24-hour emergency care. This is the best healthcare than many aliens have received in their entire lives.”
Rep. Joaquin Castro poses with Liam Conejo Ramos, father Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias and Rep. Ilhan Omar following the family’s release from a detention center in Texas. (Rep. Ilhan Omar)
Last year, the U.S. recorded the highest number of measles cases in decades, with 2,267 cases nationwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Texas Department of State Health Services noted that at least 762 cases occurred in West Texas, resulting in at least two deaths and 99 hospitalizations, according to state data last updated in August.
The Dilley facility recently faced heightened scrutiny after detaining 5‑year‑old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father, Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias, prompting Texas Rep. Joaquin Castro to vow inspections of the facility later this week, according to San Antonio Express-News.
Castro’s office said the notification of the two reported cases came shortly after the congressman’s pledge, the outlet reported, citing spokesperson Katherin Schneider.
His office added that Castro and his staff members who visited the facility are reportedly vaccinated against measles, and that the father and son received a full medical exam before their release and would not have been allowed to leave had there been any risk.
