Measles outbreak at Ave Maria University raises local vaccination concerns

A measles outbreak connected to Ave Maria University has prompted questions from families in the area. WINK News reached out to local health systems and spoke with parents about how they are approaching the situation and what information is being shared.

 

Luis Alberto, a parent, expressed his support for vaccination amid rising cases.

"Vaccines were made for something, right? I think doctors are here to provide solutions to the illnesses around us. It should be supported more, to avoid tragedies," said Alberto.

Lee Health announced it is not recommending or requesting re-immunization for staff at this time. Meanwhile, NCH is not implementing any new systemwide vaccination requirements but encourages staff to stay updated on recommended immunizations, including the MMR vaccine. The health system has existing employee health and infection prevention protocols, including guidance on immunizations and handling possible exposure.

Charles Callahan, Lee Health's interim director of infection control and epidemiology, noted an increase in inquiries from families about symptoms and vaccines.

"We have gotten a lot of inquiries, especially from parents wanting to know about vaccines and how to get vaccines, people that are concerned about symptoms, mostly through our emergency room," said Callahan. "One of the reasons why we're having the system ramp up the response is that the number of inquiries are getting greater. Measles is highly transmissible, 90% effective in becoming contagious if you're not vaccinated."

Callahan emphasized the importance of the MMR vaccine.

"Two vaccines result in greater than 90% immunity. One vaccine is about 97% effective in preventing, or at least mitigating the severity of measles after 10 to 14 days. So the MMR vaccine is extremely important. The symptoms are really just like a usual common cold, what we call the three C’s, cough, coryza, conjunctivitis, in other words, red, swollen eyes, runny nose and a cough," said Callahan.

There are currently 57 confirmed measles cases linked to Ave Maria University, with seven individuals under quarantine.

 

Parents also spoke with WINK News at the Florida Department of Health clinic in Fort Myers and shared their views on the importance of the MMR vaccine for their children. WINK News will continue to monitor the outbreak and provide updates as new information becomes available.