Measles cases rise in Collier County; experts urge vaccinations

AVE MARIA, Fla. - Health experts are raising concerns about a potential rise in measles cases in Southwest Florida.

A video was sent to residents, students and parishioners in the Ave Maria community to inform them about the growing numbers.

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

Since the start of the year, the Florida Department of Health has confirmed 61 measles cases and five probable cases in Collier County.

Former CDC Director Robert Redfield said, "It's likely you'll have a second wave. You're finishing the first wave, but you can eventually stop this epidemic. If you can get your vaccination rates up over 93%."

The vaccination rate at Ave Maria is unclear, but the university's website states that most of the community is vaccinated.

In the video, Redfield and Dr. Jacob Henches discuss the mRNA vaccine, addressing religious concerns within the Catholic community.

Redfield said, "The Pope John Paul and the magisterium has reviewed this, and they've actually said on a number of occasions, it's not only morally permissible to take the MNR vaccine, that it's actually a sign of moral responsibility."

They emphasize that those with the mRNA vaccine are 97-98% less likely to contract measles.

Outside of Collier County, there is one confirmed measles case in Lee County.