Measles cases continue to rise in Collier County: 78 confirmed, 15 probable

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. —

The latest data from the Florida Department of Health revealed there are now 78 confirmed cases of measles in Collier County, as well as 15 probable cases.

The latest update from the DOH tracks cases through Feb. 28.

Cases in Collier County continue to rise, with the start of the outbreak occurring at Ave Maria University. The first reported case was recorded on Jan. 29, according to the DOH.

Two cases have also been confirmed in Lee County, both in individuals aged 15-19.

The DOH provided the following age data for the cases in Collier County:

• Ages 0-4: 2 cases
• Ages 5-9: 3 cases
• Ages 10-14: 4 cases
• Ages 15-19: 44 cases
• Ages 20-24: 37
• Ages 35-39: 1
• Ages 55-59: 1
• Ages 60-64: 1

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 three to five 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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