NBC News Freelancer in Africa Tests Positive for Ebola

An American freelancer working in Liberia for NBC News is being flown back to the U.S. for treatment after testing positive for the Ebola virus.

“We are doing everything we can to get him the best care possible. He will be flown back to the United States for treatment at a medical center that is equipped to handle Ebola patients,” NBC News president Deborah Turness said in a note to staff.

An NBC News freelancer in Africa has tested positive for Ebola, the news outlet said Thursday. (Image source: Shutterstock)

NBC News said the freelancer had just been hired Tuesday as a second cameraman, but only started showing symptoms Wednesday. He is the fourth American to be infected with the deadly virus in Liberia.

[sharequote align="center"]“We are also taking all possible measures to protect our employees and the general public."[/sharequote]

“We are also taking all possible measures to protect our employees and the general public,” Turness continued in the note. “The rest of the crew, including Dr. Nancy, are being closely monitored and show no symptoms or warning signs."

"However, in an abundance of caution, we will fly them back on a private charter flight and then they will place themselves under quarantine in the United States for 21 days – which is at the most conservative end of the spectrum of medical guidance," Turness added.

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Featured image via Shutterstock.