Florida Measles Outbreak: Collier County Leads the Nation
Florida is currently experiencing a measles outbreak, with 92 cases reported statewide as of February 14, 2026. The state ranks third nationally for measles cases, trailing only South Carolina, and Utah. A significant portion of these cases – approximately 70% – are concentrated in Collier County, Florida.
Ave Maria University at the Epicenter
The majority of cases within Collier County, nearly 60, are linked to Ave Maria University near Naples. The university has been actively responding to the outbreak, with all nurse-assessed students exhibiting a rash and within the four-day contagious period placed in quarantine. Despite the outbreak, the university reports that the vast majority of its community is vaccinated.
State and Local Response
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) is leading contact tracing and exposure assessment efforts, providing medical guidance and on-campus clinical services. Nurses, doctors, and coordinators from the DOH are working directly with Ave Maria University staff to ensure comprehensive care for students. The DOH is also offering free vaccination clinics.
Florida’s Vaccine Policies Under Scrutiny
Even as the State of Florida has faced criticism regarding recent vaccine policy changes, mandates remain in place for essential vaccinations, including measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP), and polio. This ensures continued protection against these preventable diseases.
National Trends and Rising Cases
The measles outbreak in Florida is part of a larger national trend. Nationally, over 1,000 confirmed measles cases have been reported in the United States so far in 2026, nearly half of all cases reported in 2025.
County-by-County Breakdown
As of February 14, 2026, measles cases have been identified in the following Florida counties: Alachua (2), Broward (1), Collier (66), Duval (6), Escambia (5), Hillsborough (2), Lee (1), Manatee (3), Miami-Dade (1), Pinellas (3), and St. Johns (2).
Staying Informed and Protected
The Florida Department of Health in Collier County can be reached at 239-252-8200. Disease reporting can be done by calling 239-252-8226. Birth certificate copies can be ordered through the Bureau of Vital Statistics.
Upcoming Health Events in Collier County
- February 24, 2026: FREE 15-Minute Rapid HIV & Hepatitis Screening Days – Immokalee (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, DOH-Collier Immokalee Office)
- February 25, 2026: FREE 15-Minute Rapid HIV & Hepatitis STD Screening – Naples (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, DOH-Collier Main Office)
- February 28, 2026: Annual Children’s Dental Day (8:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Nichols Community Health Center)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the symptoms of measles? Measles is an illness caused by a contagious virus.
- How is measles spread? It spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
- How long can the measles virus survive? The virus may remain active in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours.
- Where can I find more information about measles? Contact the Florida Department of Health in Collier County at 239-252-8200.
Pro Tip: Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and your community from measles. Consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you and your family are up-to-date on your MMR vaccinations.
Stay informed about public health updates and resources by visiting the Florida Department of Health in Collier County website.