Governor's office fielding calls from Georgians concerned about Ebola

Gov. Nathan Deal says the federal government notified him last week that the two Americans infected with the Ebola virus would be coming to Georgia.

The CDC called Georgia’s Department of Community Health, to alert local officials that Ken Brantly and Nancy Writebol would be treated at Emory University Hospital.

Deal told Channel 2’s Lori Geary that the call was just a courtesy. Neither Deal nor the state has any jurisdiction in the Ebola virus cases. According to Deal, the patients’ care is handled through private contracts with Emory, nonprofits and the federal government.

The Governor’s Office is fielding calls concerned Georgians who worry about bringing the patients to Atlanta.

“I think we just have to understand that they have taken the utmost precautions. More than anyone else in the health community, they are very knowledgeable about how difficult this issue is and how much quarantine is required,” said Deal.

Deal said Georgians have nothing to worry about.

“I don’t think we should have reason to be concerned about it. We simply wish the patients well in their recovery,” said Deal.

WSBTV