US checks dead soldier for Ebola link

Authorities are checking whether a US soldier who was found dead after returning from West Africa had Ebola.

US authorities are conducting medical tests on an American soldier who was found dead after recently returning from a stint in West Africa, officials say.

"At this point, there is no indication of the Ebola virus disease, but medical tests are under way to ensure there is no threat to the community," said a statement from the US Army's Fort Hood base in Killeen, Texas, where the soldier died.

The soldier had "recently returned from West Africa" where about 2300 American troops are deployed to help with international efforts to contain the Ebola outbreak.

The soldier, 24, who was not identified, had returned with his unit to Fort Hood last week before he was found dead on Tuesday, and there was no sign he committed suicide or was murdered, the San Antonio Express reported, citing local police.

The soldier was part of a group of army engineers given the task of setting up field hospitals and living quarters for health workers, it said.

Like other troops returning from Liberia or Senegal, the soldier was required to monitor his temperature and medical condition twice a day and report his status to medical officers, according to the Fort Hood statement.


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Source: AAP



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