Tuberculosis Cases Reported in Ciudad Juárez Prisons
Ciudad Juárez, March 23, 2026 – Authorities in Ciudad Juárez have confirmed that 14 inmates in local correctional facilities are currently receiving treatment for tuberculosis. These individuals have been isolated from the general prison population to prevent the further spread of the disease, according to Gilberto Loya Chávez, Secretary of State Public Security.
Loya Chávez emphasized that all necessary sanitary measures have been implemented to prevent an increase in cases and to protect both staff and visitors. He acknowledged that restrictions on visits have caused discontent among families but are crucial for containing the disease within the penitentiary system.
Human Rights Commission Requests Information, Authorities Dismiss Case Surge
Zulay Alaíd Abbud Esparza, the First Visitor of the State Human Rights Commission (CEDH), stated that the commission has requested information regarding a specific case recently reported. However, she noted that there is currently no evidence of a significant increase in infections that have gone unaddressed.
Ricardo Fernández Acosta, Undersecretary of the Penitentiary System, reiterated that while family members have expressed discomfort regarding visitation restrictions, these measures are essential for controlling the disease. He affirmed that, with the support of the Health Secretariat, new infections within correctional facilities have been successfully avoided, and no increase in cases has been observed.
Ciudad Juárez Leads Chihuahua in Tuberculosis Cases
Authorities also highlighted that all inmates, not just those with tuberculosis, receive medical attention. The CEDH has urged families to file complaints if they believe adequate care is not being provided to their incarcerated relatives.
The proactive measures taken by prison authorities aim to manage the health crisis effectively and ensure the well-being of the prison population while balancing the concerns of inmates’ families and human rights organizations.
