66 measles cases confirmed in Collier County according to new DOH report

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. —

The Florida Department of Health has announced there are now 66 confirmed measles cases in Collier County.

As of the latest update from the DOH, which tracks cases through Feb. 14, there are 66 confirmed measles cases in Collier County, and one case linked to Lee County, bringing the total to 67 cases.

This includes 2 cases reported in individuals aged 10-14, 37 in individuals aged 15-19, and 27 in individuals aged 20-24 in Collier County.

Last week, the DOH confirmed 46 cases in Collier County.

The center of the outbreak has been at Ave Maria University, with the first reported case being recorded on Jan. 29, according to the DOH.

The increase in cases comes as former health officials are warning Collier County residents that a second wave of measles at Ave Maria University is almost guaranteed.

What are the symptoms of measles?

Measles is spread through the air by breathing, coughing, or sneezing. It can be transmitted four days before the rash becomes visible to four days after the rash appears. The symptoms of measles generally begin approximately eight to 14 days after a person is exposed to someone with measles, with a range of seven to 21 days.

Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Malaise

Typically followed in 3-5 days by:

• A rash that often starts on the face and neck, but can spread over the entire body.
• Tiny white spots with bluish-white centers are found inside the mouth.

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