Measles cases linked to Ave Maria University rise to 11; 4 hospitalized

AVE MARIA, Fla. —

Health officials say 11 confirmed measles cases in Collier County are linked to Ave Maria University, marking the first reported measles cases in the county in about 10 years.

The Florida Department of Health began tracking the outbreak last Thursday, when two cases were first identified. Since then, that number has grown to 11.

Students on campus say the university has been communicating with them about the situation. Many told Gulf Coast News they are not overly concerned because they are vaccinated.

“A lot of my friends have said people have come down with the sickness. I have not been exposed to it myself. And they say, if you have the measles or if you have a poor immune system, you should stay in quarantine,” said Josephine Miller, a junior at Ave Maria University.

For people who are concerned about possible exposure, the Mater Dei clinic in Ave Maria is offering measles testing, free with insurance. The test involves a nasal swab, with results typically available within 24 hours.

A student shared an email sent by the university on Sunday stating that nurses, doctors and a contact tracing team from the Florida Department of Health are currently on campus. The email says students without immunity are being asked to isolate in their dorm rooms for 21 days after exposure.

The university email also states that contact tracing suggests the cases most likely originated from a student’s holiday travel from another state. Students who are isolating can request meal delivery and attend classes virtually. Campus events are continuing as scheduled.

Ave Maria University has not responded to multiple requests for an interview or statement since Friday.

Some students told reporters they have seen ambulances coming and going from campus in recent days.

“I was up early yesterday morning and I saw an ambulance taking students,” said Avery Lough, a freshman at Ave Maria University. “I think it’s mainly dehydration [...] I’ve also seen a lot of nurses and doctors from the Department of Health helping out.”

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

Anthony Musingo, a physician assistant at Mater Dei Clinic, said measles symptoms often begin like a severe cold.

“Measles initially appears like a bad cold, runny nose, cough and red eyes,” Musingo said. “The rash usually appears three to five days later. If someone becomes ill, they should isolate. They remain contagious for about four days after the rash appears.”

Musingo said the cases so far appear limited to the university and have not spread into the broader community. He says there are now 4 people hospitalized.

Local schools outside the university do not appear to be affected. The principal of Donahue Academy, a Pre-K through 12 school in Ave Maria, said there are no reported measles cases at the school and parents have been notified to monitor their children for symptoms.

Doctors continue to recommend the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella.

Health officials say anyone who develops symptoms should stay home and contact a healthcare provider.

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