Ave Maria University partners with health officials to curb measles

The primary medical clinic in Ave Maria confirmed nine new positive measles cases.

Despite the outbreak, students at Ave Maria University are continuing their usual routines.

"I don't want to put life on pause. I don't want it to be another COVID-type situation. Personally, I'm choosing to still go to class," said Ava Fleckenstein, a junior at Ave Maria University.

A physician assistant informed WINK News that measles is highly contagious and can spread easily, especially among unvaccinated and vulnerable individuals.

The virus spreads similarly to the common cold. Students noted that the university is making accommodations for those affected.

"The school is making it very possible for them to be able to quarantine, having classes online for them, giving them that option to weed it out, yeah, stay safe. And we have nurses also that have been on campus, like providing vaccines for students who don't have it, okay, yeah, and we have EMT transport that will bring any students to the hospital if needed," said Kristina Kubisova, an Ave Maria University student.

A student shared an email from the university's administration stating that the university is working closely with the Florida Department of Health to prevent the spread of measles and assist students who test positive. 

The email also mentioned that the outbreak is believed to have started from a student's holiday travel to another state. The university has not responded to WINK News' multiple attempts for comment.