U.S. soldiers returning from Liberia, including their outgoing commander, Maj. Gen. Darryl Williams, are being kept in isolation in Italy for 21 days to watch for signs of the Ebola virus.
The 11 soldiers who had already returned apparently were met by Italian Carabinieri in full hazmat suits upon arrival at the U.S. base in Vicenza, CBS News reported Monday, noting that more soldiers would be put in isolation if the policy remains in effect.
Army officials said in a statement that the Army Chief of Staff has directed a 21-day controlled monitoring period “for all redeploying soldiers returning from Operation United Assistance. He has done this out of caution to ensure soldiers, family members and their surrounding communities are confident that we are taking all steps necessary to protect their health.”
The initial decision was made by a local commander and did not reflect Department of Defense-wide policies, which were still being formulated, White House spokesman Josh Earnest said.
“As needed, they will continue to put in policies they believe best protect members of the military and the people back here as well,” Earnest said.
