12 measles cases confirmed at Ave Maria University

AVE MARIA, Fla. —

There are now 12 confirmed measles cases in Collier County linked to Ave Maria University, health officials say.

These cases mark the first reported cases in Collier County in about 10 years.

Gulf Coast News previously reported on Monday that the number of cases at Ave Maria University had grown to 11.

The Mater Dei clinic in Ave Maria is offering measles testing. The testing is free with insurance and involves a nasal swab with results typically available within 24 hours.

A student shared an email from the university stating nurses, doctors and contact tracing team from the Florida Department of Health came to the campus. In the email, officials asked students without immunity to isolate in their dorm rooms for 21 days after exposure.

According to health officials, measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through the air, often when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.