Measles Information

Please review these recent notices from the Florida Department of Health in Collier County (DOH-Collier). For more information, please visit Measles – Florida Department of Health.

August 30, 2026:

The Florida Department of Health in Collier County (DOH-Collier) is working closely with health care providers and community members to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed to measles following the identification of three infants with measles in Immokalee.

Individuals who have previously had measles or who have received the Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine are unlikely to contract measles. Measles is highly contagious and up to 90% of individuals without immunity may contract the disease if exposed.

MMR vaccine can be administered to infants 6-11 months of age when there is an increased risk of measles exposure in communities, or prior to international travel. The Florida Department of Health in Collier County is offering MMR vaccines at no cost to the community.

Please see the letters in English, Spanish, and Creole for distribution.

As always, please contact our office should you have any questions.

Thank you,
Florida Department of Health in Collier County
239-252-8200

August 27, 2026:

Due to the recent increase in measles cases, the Florida Department of Health is emphasizing the importance of identifying suspected cases quickly and taking steps to minimize further transmission. Please review the current guidance on this highly infectious disease.

We will be providing MMR Immunizations AT NO COST to all residents during this time.

Measles is spread through the air by breathing, coughing, or sneezing. It can be transmitted four days before the rash becomes visible to four days after the rash appears. The symptoms of measles generally begin approximately eight to 14 days after a person is exposed to someone with measles, with a range of seven to 21 days.

Symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Coryza (Runny nose)
  • Conjunctivitis (Red, watery eyes)
  • Malaise

Typically followed in 3-5 days by:

  • Generalized descending maculopapular rash
  • Tiny white spots with bluish-white centers found inside the mouth (Koplik’s spots)

Providers should consider measles when a patient presents with a combination of a generalized, maculopapular rash lasting longer than three days, temperature greater than 101.0°F (38.3°C), and cough, coryza, and/or conjunctivitis. Expedite patients to a private room to minimize exposure.

Contact your county health department immediately (24/7) upon suspicion for measles as they can provide additional support and guidance.

Thank you for your help in keeping our community safe and healthy.

Measles Fact Sheet English | Measles Fact Sheet Spanish | Measles Fact Sheet Creole | Measles Healthcare Algorithm

Thank you,
Florida Department of Health in Collier County
239-252-8200