A Maine judge reversed the mandatory 21-day quarantine of nurse Kaci Hickox following her return from treating Ebola patients in West Africa, rejecting the governor’s push to keep her confined while leaving in place other requirements.

On Friday Judge Charles LeVerdiere ruled that, since Hickox ”currently does not show symptoms of Ebola and is therefore not infectious,” the state’s intention to keep her confined violates her civil rights. The nurse will, however, be expected to allow officials to monitor her condition, coordinate travel with the state and alert authorities immediately should symptoms arise.



State troopers waiting outside Hickox’s house departed soon after news of the decision broke.

Speaking to reporters from her front porch, Hickox expressed gratitude over the decision. “I am humbled today by the judge’s decision,” she said, adding that she “completely understands” the judge’s admonition that she be “sensitive” to fears over Ebola in her community. “I don’t want to make anyone uncomfortable.”

“I am very satisfied by the [judge’s] decision,” Hickox said. “The three points that he is still recommending that I abide by are three points that I believe are part of this good compromise we can make.”