Medical professionals react to Ave Maria measles outbreak

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. - Ave Maria University is dealing with an outbreak of measles, with the school confirming 57 cases as of Wednesday.

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Dr. Steven Goldberg, chief medical officer at Health Track RX, a nationwide infectious disease testing lab, explained the situation.

"It spreads very easily, and that could occur at many different parts of the country," said Goldberg. "What we're seeing so far this year is largest spread events in South Carolina and in Florida."

Goldberg and his team are responsible for tracking the spread of diseases across the country, including the measles.

"We've seen outbreaks in 2025 we had over 2000 cases," said Goldberg. "This year alone, we've had over 700."

The Mater Dei Clinic in Ave Maria is one of the locations where these tests are conducted. Anthony Musingo, a physician assistant at the clinic, shared their approach.

"We're watching, trying to take care of anybody who comes to us, and trying to prepare for the possibility that it gets into the community," said Musingo.

Once samples are collected, they are sent overnight via UPS to Health Track RX's anchor lab in Kentucky. The medical staff there works through the night to ensure results are ready by the next morning.

"That really allows clinicians, in particular, thinking about measles, to confirm a diagnosis and give really good advice, such as isolation if necessary, or even referral for ongoing supportive care," said Goldberg.

Goldberg emphasized the importance of preparation.

"Measles is not a reason to panic," said Goldberg. "What we want to do is slightly increase people's compliance with measles immunization. If we get that done, we'll be able to snuff it out pretty quickly."

Ave Maria University stated that the health and safety of its community is its top priority.