A Texas healthcare worker, who provided care for Liberian national Thomas Eric Duncan, tests positive for Ebola virus, Texas’ health agency said. The worker was isolated after presenting on Friday with a low-grade fever. The results were from a preliminary test from the state. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) will now perform a confirmatory test.[icopyright one button toolbar]

Dr. David Lakey, commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services, said “We knew a second case could be a reality, and we’ve been preparing for this possibility.” He added, “We are broadening our team in Dallas and working with extreme diligence to prevent further spread.”

Thomas Eric Duncan died last Wednesday and his remains were cremated. He arrived in the U.S. in last month and went to the hospital complaining of a fever and stomach pains on Sept. 24. He was given antibiotics and sent home. He returned on Sept. 28 when his condition worsened. He was diagnosed with the deadly Ebola virus. He died nine days later.

If confirmed by the CDC, the healthcare worker’s case would be the first known transmission of the Ebola virus in the U.S. It is expected that the CDC will confirm the state health department’s preliminary results.

The World Health Organization said more than 100 healthcare workers have died of Ebola in Liberia. This comes as healthcare workers in Liberia are threatening to strike if conditions don’t improve.

This was cross-posted from The Hinterland Gazette.

graphic via shutterstock.colm