As measles cases surge across U.S. colleges, it’s hard to believe that this once-eliminated disease is making a comeback. Who would’ve thought? Ave Maria University in Florida recently confirmed 20 measles cases, with another 14 still waiting for test results.
Measles is back, with Ave Maria University reporting 20 confirmed cases and more on the way. What a shock!
The Florida Department of Health is scrambling to get a handle on the situation, offering resources to monitor and minimize transmission. Seriously, Florida? You’re fourth in the nation for confirmed cases in 2026, and that’s not a ranking anyone wants. Twenty confirmed cases at Ave Maria University highlight the urgency of the situation. The Florida Department of Health in Collier County is actively monitoring cases to prevent further spread.
Nationally, the numbers are staggering. As of January 29, 2026, there are 588 confirmed cases across 17 states. Yes, 17! Arizona, California, Florida, and more are grappling with outbreaks.
And guess what? A whopping 94% of these cases are outbreak-associated. 2025 saw a staggering 2,267 cases, the highest annual total since 1991. It’s like a bad sequel to a movie nobody wanted to see.
The age demographics tell a grim story. Most cases are in those aged 5-19. Children and teens make up 69% of 2025 cases. It’s a punch to the gut when you realize that 94% of the 2026 cases are either unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status.
The MMR vaccine is 93% effective with one dose and 97% with two. So, what’s the deal? Are we really that careless?
Colleges are feeling the heat. Ave Maria is just one of several campuses dealing with outbreaks. The University of Florida is on alert too. Meanwhile, Utah is reporting a jaw-dropping 237 cases.
With 11% of patients hospitalized and three deaths, including two children, this isn’t just a numbers game. It’s people’s lives.
