Measles Outbreak at Ave Maria University in Florida: 20 Confirmed Cases in 2026

The recent measles outbreak at Ave Maria University highlights concerns over the potential resurgence of preventable diseases.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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A recent outbreak of measles at Ave Maria University in Collier County, Florida, has resulted in 20 confirmed cases as of February 7, 2026. The situation underscores growing national concerns about the potential for a resurgence of preventable diseases, with declining vaccination rates and changes in federal immunization guidelines creating pockets of susceptibility, especially in close-quarter environments like college campuses.

Why it matters

The measles outbreak at Ave Maria University reveals discrepancies between the university's initial reporting and the official numbers released by the Florida Department of Health (FDOH), highlighting the need for standardized reporting protocols and clear communication channels between educational institutions and public health agencies. The resurgence of measles is not accidental, as declining vaccination rates and changes in federal guidelines have created pockets of susceptibility, making outbreaks particularly dangerous in close-quarters environments like college campuses.

The details

While Ave Maria University initially reported 57 nurse-assessed cases, the FDOH currently confirms 20 cases. The university has now committed to referencing the FDOH website for official case numbers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned of increasing measles cases across the United States, with measles being highly contagious - up to 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people exposed may become infected. Universities are on the front lines of disease prevention, and Ave Maria University's response, including offering free vaccination clinics, establishing quarantine protocols, and providing ongoing monitoring, demonstrates best practices.

  • The measles outbreak at Ave Maria University was first reported on February 7, 2026.
  • The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) has confirmed 20 cases as of February 7, 2026.

The players

Florida Department of Health (FDOH)

The state health agency that is actively monitoring the measles outbreak at Ave Maria University and collaborating with the university.

Ave Maria University

The university in Collier County, Florida, where a recent measles outbreak has resulted in 20 confirmed cases as of February 7, 2026.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The national public health agency that has warned of increasing measles cases across the United States.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The measles outbreak at Ave Maria University serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by vaccine-preventable diseases. Strengthening public health infrastructure, improving vaccination rates, and fostering clear communication between institutions and health agencies are crucial steps to protect communities from future outbreaks.