RELEASE: Measles detected in Luna County Detention Center

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 26, 2025

Measles detected in Luna County Detention Center

Five inmates test positive for virus

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health is investigating measles infections at the Luna County Detention Center in Deming after five detainees tested positive for measles.

“The cases at Luna County Detention Center are a stark reminder that the measles outbreak in New Mexico is not over,” said Dr. Chad Smelser , a medical epidemiologist with the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH). “We urge everyone in New Mexico, especially Luna County residents, to ensure that they are fully vaccinated against measles.”

NMDOH is providing personal protection equipment, test kits and measles vaccines to the detention center, which houses about 400 people and employs about 100 staff members. NMDOH is also checking the vaccination status of the inmates and staff at the facility.

Measles symptoms develop between seven to 21 days after exposure, and include fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes, followed by a red spotted rash that usually starts on the head or face and spreads down the body. People can pass measles to someone else anywhere between four days before to four days after the rash is gone.

If you develop symptoms of measles stay home to prevent further spread and contact your healthcare provider or the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773) for further guidance. The NMDOH Helpline will also assist you with identifying locations where you and your family can be vaccinated.

For more information about measles, visit http://measles.doh.nm.gov/ .

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NMHealth

Robert Nott , Communications Director | robert.nott@doh.nm.gov | (505) 479-0147

NMHealth works to promote health and wellness, improve health outcomes, and deliver services to all New Mexicans. As New Mexico’s largest state agency, DOH offers public health services in all 33 counties and collaborates with 24 Native American Tribes, Pueblos and Nations.

New Mexico Department of Health | 1190 S St Francis Dr | Santa Fe, NM 87505 US

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