Lee Health prepares for potential measles cases after outbreak linked to Ave Maria University

CAPE CORAL, Fla. —

Lee Health is ramping up emergency operations to prepare for potential measles cases after 20 confirmed cases were reported linked to Ave Maria University, despite no confirmed cases at their facilities.

Cape Coral neighbors like Lauren McNeal said they were glad the hospital system is preparing for any measles cases to come in. She said the news of the cases at Ave Maria University took her back to the days before the MMR vaccine was developed, when she caught the disease.

"My mother was a nurse. I was able to lay on the sofa, watch TV with the sunglasses," McNeal said. "Curtains were always drawn because it could affect your eyesight."

Charles Callahan, interim director of infection control at Lee Health, advised individuals with symptoms such as upper respiratory issues, pink eye, and a rash spreading from head to toe to contact the Florida Department of Health rather than visiting a doctor, emergency room or urgent care.

"Because this is so contagious, we run the risk of spreading it through our health care system, where we really want to avoid that," Callahan said.

Lee Health screened one child for measles at Golisano Children's Hospital, but the test was negative. Callahan emphasized vaccination as the best protection.

"For someone who's never been vaccinated, if they're in a room with someone with measles, there's over a 90% chance they will contract measles," Callahan said. "For someone who's had two full vaccines, even if they had them when they were a child, there is almost 0% chance that they'll contract measles."

McNeal said she is glad the hospital is ahead of the spread and hopes everyone protects themselves.

"I do believe in me getting your child immunized, even older people that you haven't ever been immunized," McNeal said. "Please do it, especially with this becoming more prevalent everywhere."

The Lee County Department of Health has an off-hours line for individuals who suspect they may have contracted measles if you click here.

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