DURHAM (WTVD) -- Results of a second Ebola test on a man currently at Duke University Hospital should be known soon.
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The patient, who traveled to the Triangle from Africa and developed a fever, is said to be doing well. His first test for Ebola was negative.
Wednesday, one of the state's leading public health officials told reporters that a second test will be administered Wednesday morning, and this one will be definitive.
If it's again negative for Ebola, there will be much celebrating among all involved including the patient himself, his family and friends in Person County, health care workers, and state and local public health officials.
"It's essentially over [if the second test is negative]. You've proven beyond a doubt that this gentleman does not have Ebola virus disease. Therefore it's a non-issue," said State Epidemiologist Megan Davies. "The only remaining public health action in this situation is continuing routine monitoring for a traveler from that area to complete the 21 days."
However, if the test is positive, monitoring will continue and that includes the people the man had contact with in Person County.
Patient's family remains on quarantine
It's been a long, grueling process for a Timberlake family now under quarantine.
There's been a Person County Sheriff's deputy staked outside their house while their loved one remains under close watch at Duke Medical Center.
"We're praying and hoping everything's alright," said their neighbor Leamon Allan, adding that his longtime neighbors are nice people.
Along with passersby and the news media, the deputy on guard is not allowed to go to the quarantined family's door.
Some question whether the precautions are an overreaction.
During a news conference, Gov. Pat McCrory applauded the efforts of state health officials.
"It is an issue that we take very seriously and it is a new issue we have not had to deal with in the past," said McCrory. "I am very proud of the coordination between local, state, and federal officials and the private sector."
Health officials say the family is willingly cooperating with the quarantine. They say not only are deputies on guard for added security but also to protect their privacy.
Allan says he can understand that. He and his neighbors are confident the second Ebola test set for Wednesday will come back negative.