Rep. Pearce: Transfer of undocumented immigrants halted because of chicken pox

U.S. Rep Steve Pearce says he has received confirmation from the Department of Homeland Security that arrivals and departures of undocumented immigrants at the Artesia's Federal Law Enforcement Training Center have been stopped indefinitely due to treatment and vaccination for Varicella, commonly known as chicken pox. In a news release, Pearce said he is "incresingly concerned for the health and safety of the immigrants at FLETC," along with the local community. Jill McLaughlin, spokeswoman for Pearce, said two cases were reported involving a woman and child. She also said FLETC officials would now be using Eastern New Mexico Regional Medical Center in Roswell instead of Artesia General Hospital, which is more than 30 minutes away from the FLETC facility. Artesia Mayor Phillip Burch said FLETC officials reported that there was one confirmed case of chicken pot, but Burch said nothing was reported on any operation changes or a switch from Artesia's hospital to the Roswell hospital. "There was nothing mentioned of that," Burch said. Burch added that one child was recently taken to Artesia General Hospital for respirtory difficulties. Also, two calls were sent to local emergency medical services for health-related issues last week, according to Burch.  The Current-Argus was unable to reach DHS or FLETC officials for comment because of deadline but more information will be reported as it develops.  Source