Measles cases rise in Collier County; Ave Maria students adapt to outbreak

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health updated its weekly report, showing an increase in confirmed measles cases in Collier County.

The latest numbers show 61 confirmed measles cases in Collier County, along with five probable cases, and one confirmed case in Lee County.

At Ave Maria University, where the outbreak began, students continue with their daily activities despite the outbreak.

"I feel like we're fine. You know, we're doing pretty good," said Ephreo Mosher, a sophomore at Ave Maria University.

Mosher explained that some adjustments have been made on campus in response to the measles cases.

"They changed the location where mass is, so that way it's bigger room, and so it's more spread out, and so people could have a more bit more room," Mosher said. "Normally it's in this small chapel, which is really, really cramped, and most people have to sort of go outside. So it's a bit better, actually, because most people are inside and have seating"

The Florida Department of Health report covers data from Jan. 1, 2026, through Feb. 14, 2026. Most confirmed cases in Collier County are among teenagers and young adults, with the largest group between ages 15 and 19, followed by those ages 20 to 24.

Anthony Musingo, a physician assistant at the Primary Care Clinic in Ave Maria, provided insights on immunity related to measles.

"If you were vaccinated in 1968 or later, you’re presumed immune," Musingo said. "There can be waning immunity or non-responders to the vaccine in up to two to three percent of the population, but overall, you’re considered immune. Vaccine use between 1957 and 1968 was a killed virus vaccine that was more at risk for waning immunity, so people vaccinated in that timeframe may want to check titers or consider a booster. If you were born before 1957, you’re presumed immune from measles."

Musingo advised individuals with questions to consult with their primary care providers.

"Have a conversation with your primary care provider," Musingo said. "The safety of the vaccine is well tested. People are vaccine hesitant for a number of reasons, and those are good conversations to have with your doctor."

In a recent interview with Ave Maria South Health and Ave Maria Biotech, former CDC Director Dr. Robert Redfield said a second wave is possible.

“It’s likely you’ll have a second wave.” Redfield said. “You’re finishing the first wave, but you can eventually stop this epidemic if you can get your vaccination rates up over 93%.”

Click here to hear more from former CDC Director Dr. Robert Redfield.