As measles cases continue to rise across the United States, Florida is experiencing a significant surge, currently ranking third nationally for the number of confirmed infections. According to data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of February 12, 2026, the Sunshine State has reported 63 cases of measles. This increase underscores a concerning trend, as the U.S. Risks losing its measles-elimination status for the first time in over two decades.
The outbreaks are not limited to a single location within Florida. Ave Maria University, a private Catholic college near Naples, has been particularly affected, with at least 12 students testing positive for measles earlier this month, according to NBC News. Nationwide, the CDC has confirmed 910 measles cases in 2026, a substantial increase from the 2,280 cases reported throughout all of 2025, which included 25 cases among international visitors to the U.S.
Florida’s situation is part of a broader national pattern. Currently, 23 other states have reported measles cases, with South Carolina leading the country with 616 confirmed infections. Utah follows with 96 cases. Other states impacted include Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
Rising Cases and Hospitalization Rates
The increase in measles cases is prompting concern among health officials. Whereas hospitalizations associated with measles infections have remained relatively low this year, at 3%, they were significantly higher in 2025, reaching 11%. This difference may be attributed to higher vaccination rates, but experts emphasize the continued importance of immunization. Before the introduction of the measles vaccine, the CDC estimates that approximately 48,000 people were hospitalized annually, and between 400 and 500 died each year from the disease.
The situation at Ave Maria University highlights the challenges of containing the virus. The university initially reported 50 treated student cases and seven additional students in quarantine as of February 13, 2026, but has since shifted to relying on data from the Florida Department of Health (DOH) for official case numbers, citing a lag in state reporting. The DOH currently reports 46 confirmed cases in Collier County, where the university is located, through February 7, 2026.
Call for Vaccination and Public Health Response
The urgency of the situation prompted Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, to publicly urge individuals to get vaccinated against measles on February 8. “Take the vaccine, please,” Dr. Oz stated. “We have a solution for our problem.” Public health officials continue to emphasize vaccination as the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles.
The vast majority of the Ave Maria University community is protected, with the Florida Department of Health reporting that those with a history of infection or who have received the full series of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) immunization are 98% protected against measles. However, even vaccinated individuals can experience breakthrough infections, as evidenced by cases among a student and a professor at Ave Maria University, as reported by Dr. Raul Enad, a local physician.
The CDC recommends that children receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age. Maintaining high vaccination rates is crucial to preventing further outbreaks and protecting vulnerable populations.
As the situation evolves, continued monitoring and proactive public health measures will be essential to mitigate the spread of measles in Florida and across the nation. The Florida Department of Health will continue to provide weekly updates on official case numbers for Collier County, and Ave Maria University remains committed to supporting the health and well-being of its campus community through ongoing monitoring, vaccination clinics, quarantine protocols, and transparent communication.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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