Gabriel Velasquez-Neira

Journalists are now independently verifying confirmed measles cases with health clinics and immunologists to get more accurate numbers.

Local outlets estimate that the number of confirmed cases has risen to 33.

Now, the University of Florida says the Department of Health is conducting contact tracing for two measles cases on its campus.

The most severe outbreak is in southwest Florida, where the local NBC affiliate reported 20 confirmed cases.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the best way to prevent measles is to get vaccinated.

Health officials say people who do develop measles symptoms should isolate and contact a health care provider before seeking in-person treatment.

For NPR News, I'm Gabriel Velasquez-Neira in Gainesville.