Alabama Hospital Rules Out Ebola After Emergency Room Diversion Sparks Panic in Gadsden
Eastern Herald
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Gadsden Regional Medical Center experienced a brief ambulance diversion and social media speculation regarding a patient with symptoms resembling Ebola. The hospital, in coordination with public health officials, has confirmed no patient has tested positive for Ebola or any viral hemorrhagic fever.
- Officials at Gadsden Regional Medical Center confirmed that no patients had been diagnosed with Ebola or any viral hemorrhagic fever, dispelling rumors that spread on social media. The hospital had briefly closed its emergency department to incoming ambulances due to a patient presenting with concerning symptoms.
- The hospital collaborated with the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) throughout the day. Etowah County emergency management confirmed that testing ruled out Ebola, and federal containment protocols were followed as a precautionary measure.
- The incident occurred against the backdrop of an active Bundibugyo virus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, which has been declared a public health emergency of international concern. This global context fueled rapid dissemination of unverified claims on social media platforms.
- The emergency department remained open to walk-in patients and was fully operational for ambulance transport by evening. The hospital emphasized that the ambulance diversion was an act of caution, not confirmation of exposure.
- Federal guidance for suspected Ebola cases involves isolation, notification of public health officials, and specimen coordination with designated laboratories. The United States is considered at low risk for Ebola despite the African outbreak.
