Measles outbreak at Ave Maria University alarms Collier County parents

AVE MARIA, Fla.—Measles cases connected to Ave Maria University in Collier County are on the rise, prompting concern among residents and visitors. The university has reported 57 confirmed cases on campus, with seven students currently in quarantine.

Residents are surprised by the outbreak, especially given the availability of vaccines. A parent from Collier County expressed concern, saying, "After I heard about this, I looked up the vaccine schedule. We have a 14-month-old child, and it’s concerning if she’s not vaccinated yet and there are people running around with measles."

Another parent, Jane Lach, emphasized the importance of vaccination from a young age, saying, "I think it’s very preventable from a young age. Following the recommended vaccination schedules is important, so that way when our kids go to school one day, they will have the antibodies and the vaccinations, so they don’t have to be subjected to catching measles as adults."

Visitors to the area are also taken aback by the news. Ben Hertzman from Canada said, "It’s a little disturbing. I didn’t realize measles was something everyone thought you got vaccinated for, or at least that we all get vaccinated in Canada. It’s not something we think about. But it’s unfortunate that a disease you think shouldn’t be here anymore is affecting the lives of children."

Jennifer Murphy, a resident of Collier County, expressed her surprise, saying, "I am actually very shocked. I can’t believe I haven’t heard anything about it lately. I wish them well. I hope everyone stays contained and gets better."

The Florida Department of Health updates measles case numbers weekly, with the latest reports indicating dozens of confirmed cases in Collier County through early February. Ave Maria University continues to provide updates on its website.

WINK News will continue to monitor the situation and provide the latest information as it becomes available.