CAMPUS HEALTH UPDATE
Latest Update
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) Bureau of Epidemiology reports four measles cases through January 31, 2026, in Collier County. These figures reflect DOH-confirmed test results during the most recent reporting period and may change as new data becomes available. The next DOH report will be released on February 12, 2026.
At Ave Maria University's Padre Pio Campus Health Clinic, from February 2-4, 2026, there have been zero new symptomatic (nurse assessment with students exhibiting high fever and rash) measles cases. Several students have received confirmed negative measles test results. There is always a possibility of new cases of measles on campus, and we remain vigilant and prepared to support our students.
We continue to provide care for all students regardless of test results and are closely monitoring the situation in coordination with the DOH. In addition to the Padre Pio Campus Health Clinic, a second on-campus clinic has been established to support routine student care.
Per DOH guidance, campus operations continue, including in-person classes; Masses and confessions; dining services; and noncurricular activities. AMU continues to provide comprehensive support services to ensure our students' health, academic, and spiritual needs are met.
Key Facts
Vast Majority of Students, Staff, and Faculty Protected
The vast majority of the Ave Maria University community is vaccinated. Those with a history of infection or who have received the full series of the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) immunization are 98% protected against measles according to the Florida Department of Health (DOH).
Immediate Care Response
From day one, the University ensured the timely care of students and promptly reported suspected cases to public health officials.
Comprehensive Student Support
Students are receiving comprehensive medical and nursing support services, including meals, housing, academics, and spiritual care.
Medical Officials on Campus
DOH and Healthcare Network (HCN) doctors, nurses, and coordinators are on-site providing care and guidance in collaboration with AMU's Padre Pio Campus Health Clinic.
University Operations Continue
Per DOH guidance, campus operations continue.
Ongoing Communication
Students, parents, faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees are receiving ongoing communication in collaboration with DOH.
Caring for Our Students
Our Comprehensive Response
President Mark Middendorf directs his entire leadership team to do whatever is necessary to provide the highest level of care for our students, faculty, and staff, in accordance with DOH guidelines. The health, safety, and well-being of our campus community remain our top priority.
The vast majority of the Ave Maria University community is vaccinated and not at risk.
According to the DOH, those with a prior history of infection or who have received the full series of the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) immunization are 98% protected and are unlikely to contract measles. The vast majority of our campus community is immune and can continue its normal campus activities.
Campus operations continue in alignment with guidance from the DOH. Our leadership team is working closely with the DOH to support our campus community's health and safety. We are grateful for the expertise and guidance provided by Florida public health officials.
The DOH is leading contact tracing and exposure assessment, while assisting with medical guidance and on-campus clinical services. Nurses, doctors, and coordinators from the DOH are on-site, working closely with our campus staff to provide comprehensive care for our students.
Our Response
University Updates
February 4, 2026
Routine Support Services
The University's care team continues providing health resources, meals, and academic support to students as needed.
February 3, 2026
Care Response Team
The University, supported by DOH and HCN, continued around-the-clock operations providing clinical care, meals, and academic and spiritual support to students.
February 2, 2026
Classes Continued
Classes continued, and those affected received care from the Padre Pio Campus Health Clinic with support from the DOH.
February 1, 2026
Campus Operations Continue
Working directly with the DOH, the University continued campus operations. The DOH's contact tracing team and vaccine clinic, the HCN Mobile Clinic, and EMS support remained on campus, demonstrating a collaborative approach to maintaining a healthy campus environment.
January 31, 2026
Comprehensive Support Services Deployed
Healthcare Network (HCN) Mobile Clinic was positioned on campus for student evaluation. Two EMS vehicles were stationed on campus for rapid hospital transport if needed. The DOH team continued contact tracing and vaccine clinic operations.
January 30, 2026
DOH Vaccine Clinic Established
Additional DOH support was deployed to campus with licensed nurses, MMR vaccine supply, and an on-campus vaccine clinic.
January 29, 2026
Cases Confirmed, Response Coordinated
The DOH confirmed measles cases. The University coordinated with the DOH for contact tracing and medical guidance. Protocols were established for immune and non-immune community members.
January 28, 2026
Initial Assessment and Notification
The University became aware of suspected cases and promptly reported to the DOH in compliance with Florida law. The Padre Pio Campus Health Clinic began assessing students immediately. Suspected students were tested. Students, parents, faculty, and staff were notified.
On Campus Now
Health Resources in Place
On-Campus Health Resources
- •Padre Pio Campus Health Clinic
- •DOH and HCN nurses, doctors, and coordinators on-site
- •DOH vaccine clinic with continued availability
- •HCN Mobile Clinic on standby
- •EMS vehicle(s) stationed for rapid hospital transport
Public Health Coordination
- •DOH-led contact tracing and exposure assessment
- •Ongoing coordination with DOH
- •Regular guidance updates from Florida public health officials
- •Comprehensive student support protocols in place
Student Care
Student Support Services
Ave Maria University provides comprehensive support services to ensure our students' health, academic, and spiritual needs are met.
Daily Essentials
- •Meal delivery service for students in quarantine
- •Housing accommodations for affected students
- •Daily wellness check-ins and care
Academic Accommodations
- •Online class options for students in quarantine
- •Laboratory work completion arranged for after quarantine
- •Faculty coordination to support student learning
Spiritual Care
- •Holy Communion brought to students in quarantine
- •Confessions available
- •Campus priests available for spiritual support
For Loved Ones
Parents and Families
Your student's health, safety, and academic success remain our highest priorities.
We understand that hearing about any health situation on campus can be concerning. We want to assure you that Ave Maria University has taken immediate, comprehensive action in full partnership with the Florida Department of Health (DOH) and the Healthcare Network (HCN).
What We're Doing
- •Following DOH guidance
- •Providing on-site medical care with DOH and HCN professionals
- •Supporting student academic progress
- •Meeting physical and spiritual needs
- •Maintaining essential communication with families
What You Should Know
- •Vaccinated students are protected (98% effective)
- •Campus operations continue per DOH guidance
- •Students in quarantine receive full support services
- •Healthcare professionals are providing on-campus support
- •We are in ongoing communication with the DOH
Contact Information
For student and parent inquiries, please contact:
Dr. Daniel Lendman
Dean of Students
studentaffairs@avemaria.eduFor More Information
Health Resources
Florida Department of Health
The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.
Visit Florida Department of HealthContact Information
Media Inquiries
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For Student and Parent Inquiries
Please contact: