Ave Maria University students urged to stay home amid measles outbreak

AVA MARIA, Fla.—A measles outbreak at Ave Maria University has led to a growing number of confirmed cases on campus. WINK News has been closely following the situation as it develops.

The primary medical clinic in Ave Maria confirmed that the number of measles cases linked to the university has now reached 20.

Students shared that they are trying to remain positive and feel that the university is taking necessary steps to ensure their safety.

"Professors are saying to stay at home if you're feeling even a little bit sick," said Gabrielle Metcalfe, a student at Ave Maria University. "They're following all the health codes and just putting the welfare and health of the students first."

Physician Assistant Anthony Musingo noted the establishment of an outdoor testing station to manage the influx of people seeking tests.

"We set up the outdoor testing station as of Friday, and had an influx of people seeking testing," said Musingo. "So we're up to 20 cases."

Musingo emphasized the importance of caution over panic.

"It’s a good time for caution, and there’s certainly no need for panic," said Musingo. "You know, avoid crowded places, and if you become symptomatically ill, then seek care."

Health officials warned that measles spreads easily through the air and can quickly affect communities, particularly those who are unvaccinated or medically vulnerable.

"It does not scare me, but I do have a lot of friends that are immunocompromised," said Debbie Fornwall, an Ave Maria resident. "I would hope that everybody does their due diligence and gets tested or stays away from the public."

The Florida Department of Health is actively working on campus to safeguard public health and has made the vaccine available to those who need it.