Judge rejects Ebola quarantine for nurse

FORT KENT, Maine — A Maine judge has rejected a bid by state health officials to restrict the movement of nurse Kaci Hickox, who defied a quarantine for medical workers who have treated Ebola patients.

Judge Charles C. LaVerdiere ruled Friday that she should continue daily monitoring and coordinate travel with state officials so monitoring can continue. But, because she’s not showing symptoms, the judge says she’s not infectious.

The state went to court Thursday to impose restrictions until the 21-day incubation period for Ebola ends on Nov. 10.

Hickox, who treated Ebola patients in Sierra Leone, contended confinement at her home in northern Maine violated her rights.

She also contended it’s not necessary because she poses no risk. She defied the state’s voluntary quarantine by holding a news conference and going for a bike ride.

Maine health officials had obtained a 24-hour court order restricting Hickox’s movement after the nurse repeatedly defied the state’s quarantine for medical workers who have treated Ebola patients.