By By Maddie Herron, Haley Zarcone, and Brinkley Hill
The Collier County campus of Ave Maria University is currently grappling with a growing measles epidemic. As of Tuesday morning, the Mater Dei Clinic—the primary medical facility serving the town—reported nine additional confirmed cases, with further test results still pending.
While the clinic has attested that every current case is contained within the campus, university officials are working closely with the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) to supply necessary resources and management.
A Campus Under Pressure
Though the FDOH has not yet verified the clinic’s latest figures, clinic data confirms 11 cases from earlier in the week plus the nine new instances, bringing the total to 20 affected individuals.
For students on the ground, the atmosphere is tense. Kennedy Kaplan, a sophomore at the university, described the environment as “feeling like we’re back in 2020 with COVID.” Kaplan has been caring for her roommate, who was diagnosed five days ago.
“My roommate is undoubtedly having difficulties. She’s been ill for the past week or so,” Kaplan stated, noting symptoms like a persistent cough, rash, and high temperature. Kaplan, who is vaccinated, has stayed to help her friend but is currently living off-campus with relatives to avoid further exposure.
The Risks of “Close Quarters”
According to the Florida Department of Health, measles is highly contagious. Symptoms typically include:
- High fever and exhaustion
- Cough and runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- A distinct rash
Anthony Musingo, a physician’s assistant at the nearby Mater Dei Clinic, says the outbreak appears restricted to the university. However, he warned that “anytime there’s close quarters is what’s going to present the risk.” Musingo’s team is using nasal swabs for testing, with results available the following day.
How the Virus Spreads
According to Dr. Brian Thornburg, the virus is exceptionally contagious; if a person with the disease enters a room, nine out of ten unprotected individuals will likely become infected.
While many students rely on their vaccinations, Dr. Thornburg pointed out that no vaccine is 100% infallible. “Even an individual who took the entire series of the two doses of MMR, up to 5% will not develop antibodies,” he explained. He also noted that older individuals might find their antibody levels decreasing over time.
Student Life in Isolation
In response to the spread, the university has implemented quarantine measures. Students Josephine Miller and Cecilia Yallaly discussed how the school is managing those who are ill or immunocompromised.
“They have students to deliver meals to rooms, which we have seen personally,” Miller said. Yallaly added that several students have been isolating and completing their coursework entirely online to keep others safe.
Moving Forward
Health officials underline that isolation is the most effective tool in reducing transmission. “Definitely don’t panic,” Musingo advised, urging people to avoid crowded areas until the situation calms down.
The FDOH reminds the public that measles can spread four days before and four days after the onset of a rash. If you suspect you have been exposed, the Department urges you to contact your primary care physician or the county health department before visiting a clinic in person.
“Just stay positive and we’ll get through this,” said Kaplan.
Note: Maddie Herron reached out to Ave Maria University for further comment but has not yet received a response.
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