El Paso ICE Facility Reports Active Tuberculosis Cases: What You Should Know

Infections Confirmed at El Paso ICE Facility: A Growing Concern

Recent reports from the Camp East Montana immigration detention facility in El Paso have raised significant alarm after two active cases of tuberculosis were confirmed there. U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar disclosed these health crisis details following her visit to the facility. This comes alongside the unsettling revelation of 18 COVID-19 cases reported at the same site, highlighting serious health risks for its vulnerable population of detainees.

As of January, there were around 3,100 individuals held at Camp East Montana, which has a capacity of 5,000. Many of these detainees are already in precarious health, with roughly one-third suffering from chronic illnesses, revealing critical flaws in health provisions at the center.

Immigration Detention Centers Under Scrutiny

The conditions at the Camp East Montana facility have been under scrutiny since its grand opening in August 2025. Critics, including Escobar, have argued that the facility is mismanaged by Acquisition Logistics LLC, a Virginia-based company that appears to be ill-equipped to ensure adequate medical care. Women and children make up part of the detainee population, emphasizing a pressing need for specialized healthcare services that are being neglected.

During Escobar's visit, she noted the alarming lack of resources and services provided to the detainees, which are being funded by taxpayer dollars. This $1.24 billion contract bears scrutiny due to claims of mismanagement and potential fraud. Escobar emphasized that many detainees aren't receiving necessary medical assistance, with inadequate responses to both tuberculosis and COVID-19 cases.

Rising Health Risks in Detention Centers

The emergence of these infections reflects broader issues of public health in U.S. immigration facilities. Tuberculosis, an airborne disease, poses a substantial threat, especially in crowded environments where ventilation is limited. The growing number of detainees suffering from infectious diseases points to potential systemic failures in the detention system.

Overall, the health care standards at ICE facilities, including Camp East Montana, have often been criticized. Previous outbreaks of measles in facilities and concerns voiced by civil rights advocates amplify the urgency to address these issues effectively.

Local Impact and Community Reactions

Community leaders and health officials emphasize that local populations are also at risk as diseases can easily spread beyond the confines of the detention centers. In Texas, a state with a diverse immigrant population, understanding the implications of such outbreaks is crucial. El Paso, as a border city, uniquely navigates the challenges posed by an ongoing immigration crisis.

Future Implications and Political Responses

The situation accelerates discussions regarding immigration policy reforms and health management in detention centers. Public health, immigration rights, and local law enforcement must collaborate to ensure that detainees receive humane treatment and access to adequate medical care. As Texas continues to see proposals for expanding ICE facilities, advocates stress the need for immediate reforms to prevent outbreaks and protect public health.

As Texas grapples with these violent issues in its immigration facilities, individuals are encouraged to engage with local advocacy groups and support movements for improvement in health standards within the system. Understanding that these challenges can affect not only detainees but also the surrounding communities is key.