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Measles Case Reported at St. Petersburg Catholic High School
Florida sees surge in measles cases as vaccination rates decline
Published on Feb. 7, 2026
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A confirmed case of measles at St. Petersburg Catholic High School is the latest sign of a worrying trend: the resurgence of a disease once considered largely eradicated in the United States. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation, as cases pop up across the state and nationwide, prompting concerns about community spread and the importance of vaccination.
Why it matters
The return of measles highlights declining vaccination rates and increased vaccine hesitancy, putting vulnerable populations like young children at risk. This case is part of a broader spike in measles cases nationwide, raising concerns about the ability of healthcare providers to detect and respond to the highly contagious disease.
The details
The sophomore student at St. Petersburg Catholic High School has not been on campus since January 27th, and currently, no additional cases have been identified within the school. The school is collaborating with the Department of Health to ensure the safety of students and staff. This case joins others recently reported in Hillsborough and Manatee counties, and at Ave Maria University, which is currently dealing with 20 confirmed cases. The University of Florida is also conducting contact tracing after potential exposures in two classes.
- The sophomore student at St. Petersburg Catholic High School has not been on campus since January 27th.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported 733 measles cases nationwide so far this year.
The players
St. Petersburg Catholic High School
A high school in St. Petersburg, Florida where a confirmed case of measles has been reported.
Department of Health
The health department that is collaborating with the school to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The national public health institute that has reported a substantial increase in measles cases nationwide compared to historical averages.
Dr. Patrick Mularoni
A pediatric emergency medicine physician at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital who notes he has never seen a case of measles in his 20 years of practice.
What they’re saying
“For many healthcare professionals, the return of measles is a significant shift.”
— Dr. Patrick Mularoni, Pediatric emergency medicine physician (newsy-today.com)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
