Two new cases of measles reported in Collier County, bringing statewide total to 158 for the year

Two new measles cases were reported in Collier County in the newest report from the Florida Department of Health. The two new cases, both of which are in children ages 0 to 4, bring the total number of cases for the county to three since the start of August. The new cases come after a measles outbreak earlier this year, which stemmed from a number of reported cases at Ave Maria University. Additionally, Lee Health reported one case of measles at Golisano Children's Hospital in Lee County within the last two weeks. The new cases bring the statewide total to 158 for the year, with 110 of the cases coming from Collier County. Dr. Jaime Khemraj, chief medical officer at Healthcare Network in Collier County, explained how easily the virus can spread. "If there are ten people in a room, let's say with one person has measles, nine out of ten people will get that condition," she said. She also noted the effectiveness of the measles vaccine, stating that one dose can boost immunity to 93%, while a second dose increases it to 97%. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV