CAMPUS HEALTH UPDATE
Latest Update
According to Florida Department of Health (DOH) guidance, the contagious period for measles includes the four days before a rash appears, and the four days after the rash begins. All nurse-assessed students on campus within the four-day contagious period following the onset of a rash are in quarantine.
Today, the DOH updated its website with data showing 46 confirmed measles cases across all of Collier County from January 1 through February 7, 2026.
Going forward, we will reference the DOH website for weekly updates on official case numbers for Collier County.
Our ongoing priority remains the health, safety, and well-being of every member of our campus community. We continue to provide comprehensive support through ongoing monitoring, free vaccination clinics offered by the DOH, established quarantine protocols, transparent communication with our students and families, and the spiritual care of our Campus Ministry priests.
We are grateful for the fortitude of our students and the support of their families, the dedicated service of our campus faculty and staff, the guidance of the DOH, and the commitment of our healthcare partners. Most of all, we are grateful for the many prayers offered for our community. We ask for your continued prayers as we trust in God's providential care and move forward together in faith and charity.
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.
Broader Picture
National Context
The United States is experiencing a significant increase in measles cases. According to the CDC, there were 2,267 confirmed cases across 45 states in 2025, with 588 additional cases already reported in early 2026. This represents a substantial increase compared to the 285 cases reported in 2024, reflecting a nationwide public health challenge.
Map of Measles Cases Among U.S. Residents
Map of measles cases among U.S. residents. Source: CDC
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
For all media inquiries, please contact:
For Student and Parent Inquiries
Please contact: