Case confirmed at Doña Ana County facility as statewide total rises to five in 2026

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - A federal inmate housed at the Doña Ana County Detention Center has tested positive for measles as four cases were confirmed in southern New Mexico detention facilities.

The New Mexico Department of Health said two inmates are housed at the Luna County Detention Center, one at the Doña Ana County Detention Center and one at the Hidalgo County Detention Center. The four cases bring New Mexico’s total measles cases in 2026 to five.

Earlier this week, the department reported that a federal inmate in the Hidalgo County facility tested positive.

Health officials said they have not identified any public locations where exposure may have occurred. The department is coordinating with the detention centers to ensure quarantine, isolation, testing and vaccination protocols are followed to limit spread.

“These new infections serve as a reminder that measles can spread rapidly and that the best prevention against this virus is the measles, mumps and rubella shot,” said Dr. Chad Smelser, deputy state epidemiologist for the Department of Health.

Officials urged anyone eligible for vaccination, including people who work in correctional facilities and other congregate settings, to receive the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine.

The department reported 100 measles cases in 2025 during an outbreak that lasted from mid-February to mid-September.

Measles symptoms typically develop seven to 21 days after exposure and often begin with fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A red, spotted rash usually appears on the head or face before spreading down the body. People can spread the virus from four days before to four days after the rash appears.

Health officials advise anyone who has symptoms and believes they were exposed to measles to call a doctor or emergency department before arriving in person so staff can minimize exposure to others.

Residents with questions about measles or vaccination can call the Department of Health helpline at 1-833-796-8773 for assistance in English and Spanish. They can also text 66364 with questions.