Measles Cases Rise at Ave Maria University to 57

There are now 57 cases of measles at Ave Maria University. Seven students are still sick. Health workers are on campus to help stop the sickness from spreading.
By Newsroom | Health, United States |

An outbreak of measles at Ave Maria University (AMU) in Florida has seen a significant rise in confirmed cases, reaching 57 individuals. Seven students are currently considered contagious, prompting ongoing monitoring by health officials. This development occurs as measles cases are reportedly increasing across the United States.

University Reports Significant Rise in Measles Cases

The measles outbreak at Ave Maria University has progressed, with the latest reports indicating 57 confirmed cases. Of these, seven students remain contagious. University updates, as of recent reporting, note that nurses have assessed students presenting with the characteristic rash, contributing to the overall case count. Students previously affected have expressed a desire to move past the illness.

Measles Outbreak Hits Ave Maria University in Florida - 1

  • Total Cases: 57 confirmed cases

  • Contagious Cases: 7 students currently

  • Symptoms: Fever, cough, watery eyes, and rash are noted symptoms.

The Florida Department of Health is involved in tracking and managing the outbreak, with officials present on campus. Health experts emphasize the highly contagious nature of measles, noting that transmission can occur in shared indoor spaces.

Timeline and Case Progression

Initial reports of the measles outbreak at Ave Maria University surfaced in early February. By February 3, 2026, cases had reportedly jumped from 2 to 11. A university advisory on February 6, 2026, indicated that more than 48 students had been involved, with two still within their contagious period. More recent updates, published around February 11-13, 2026, placed the total number of confirmed cases at 57, with seven students actively contagious.

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  • Early February: Initial reports surface.

  • February 3, 2026: Cases rise to 11.

  • February 6, 2026: University reports over 48 cases, 2 contagious.

  • February 11-13, 2026: Confirmed cases reach 57, with 7 contagious.

The Florida Department of Health is scheduled to release updated case numbers.

Measles Transmission and Vaccination

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness. Health experts note that the virus can spread efficiently through the air. Exposure in a shared indoor environment can be sufficient for transmission.

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  • Transmission: Spreads through the air via respiratory droplets.

  • Vaccination: The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is used to prevent measles.

  • Breakthrough Cases: It is possible, though rare, to contract measles even after being vaccinated with the MMR vaccine.

  • Severity: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that among unvaccinated individuals who contract measles, one in five may require hospitalization. Serious complications can include pneumonia or encephalitis (brain swelling).

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One unvaccinated sophomore at AMU reported developing symptoms before testing positive for the virus.

University and Health Department Response

Ave Maria University administration has stated they are providing support services to students and have been keeping them informed. University updates confirm the presence of Florida Department of Health physicians, nurses, and contact tracers on campus. The university has also indicated that measles is considered an "essential vaccine" in their policies.

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  • University Actions:

  • Providing comprehensive support services.

  • Issuing regular updates to students.

  • Working with health officials on campus.

  • Health Department Actions:

  • Stationing medical personnel on campus.

  • Conducting contact tracing.

  • Monitoring and reporting case numbers.

The Florida Department of Health's updated case numbers have reportedly been slightly lower than those reported by the university. This discrepancy highlights potential differences in reporting or confirmation timelines.

Broader Context of Measles Outbreaks

The outbreak at Ave Maria University occurs amidst a wider increase in measles cases across the United States. At least 21 U.S. states have reported confirmed measles cases. In South Carolina, a significant outbreak has resulted in over 900 cases since September. University of Florida (UF) is also investigating cases of measles on its campus, with at least two cases reported.

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  • National Trend: Growing number of measles outbreaks nationwide.

  • Other Florida Campuses: Cases also being monitored at the University of Florida.

  • Vaccine Mandates: Discussion regarding vaccine mandates as a solution is ongoing, with some officials opposing such measures.

Expert Insights

“Measles spreads so efficiently that exposure in a shared indoor space can be enough to transmit the virus.” — Health Expert (via WSF Health News)

“The measles outbreak at Ave Maria University has expanded to 57 confirmed cases, with seven students still considered contagious, according to the latest campus update.” — Reported University Update (via Fox 4 Now)

Conclusion and Implications

The measles outbreak at Ave Maria University has reached a considerable size, involving 57 confirmed cases, with seven individuals still contagious. The situation is being actively managed by the university and the Florida Department of Health. The ongoing rise in measles cases nationally underscores the importance of public health monitoring and response.

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  • Current Status: 57 confirmed cases, 7 contagious.

  • Public Health Focus: Continued monitoring, isolation of contagious individuals, and communication with the university community.

  • Broader Concern: The outbreak is occurring within a national context of increasing measles activity.

Further updates are expected from the Florida Department of Health regarding case numbers. The university is expected to continue providing information to its students and the public.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many people have measles at Ave Maria University?
There are 57 confirmed cases of measles. Seven students are still able to spread the sickness.
Q: What are the signs of measles?
Signs include fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a rash. These symptoms can start about a week or two after being exposed.
Q: How is measles spread?
Measles is very easy to spread. It travels through the air when someone coughs or sneezes.
Q: What is being done to stop the spread?
Health workers are on campus to help track cases and give advice. The university is also sharing information with students.