Largest measles outbreak in recent history reported on southwest Florida college campus
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More than 40 cases of measles have been reported at Ave Maria University in southwest Florida, marking the largest outbreak on a U.S. college campus in recent history.
The situation at the private Catholic university comes amid a broader national rise in measles cases, with 2,280 infections confirmed nationwide in 2025 and more than 900 cases reported so far in 2026.
“Since the beginning of the semester, 48 students evaluated by nurses have progressed beyond the contagious period and now have natural immunity,” Ave Maria University posted in an online update on February 10.
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Several universities have reported measles activity this year. Clemson University and Anderson University in South Carolina each reported single cases that led to the quarantine of a larger group of students.
The University of Florida also reported exposure in two specific classes on its Gainesville campus.
Several universities have reported measles activity this year, but the Ave Maria scale sets it apart from the others. (iStock)
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) recently updated its data to show 46 confirmed cases of measles across Collier County from January 1 to February 7, with the university being the primary site of the cluster.
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The contagious period for measles includes the four days before and after a rash appears, according to the DOH.
More than 40 cases of measles have been reported at Ave Maria University in southwest Florida, marking the largest outbreak on a U.S. college campus in recent history. (Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
“All students tested by nurses on campus within the four-day contagious period after the onset of a rash are quarantined,” the university stated in the latest update.
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Ave Maria University requires proof of vaccination but, in accordance with Florida law, allows students to opt out by signing a waiver for religious or personal reasons.
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The “vast majority” of the university community is vaccinated, according to university health updates. The school remains open for normal operations, including in-person classes and Mass.
The “vast majority” of the university community is vaccinated and the school remains open for normal operations, including in-person classes and mass. (iStock)
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People with a history of infection or who have received the full series of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccines are 98% protected and are unlikely to contract measles, according to the DOH.
Khloe Quill is a lifestyle production assistant at News Digital. She and the lifestyle team cover a range of topics including food and drink, travel and health.