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Rep. John Rutherford expected to be released from hospital this week

Former Jacksonville Sheriff John Rutherford was sworn in as the representative for Florida's Fourth Congressional District in January 2017.

Representative and former Jacksonville Sheriff John Rutherford is expected to be released from the hospital this week.

Action News Jax reported Wednesday when Rutherford collapsed in Washington D.C. just days after he was sworn into congress.

A spokesperson said Rutherford had an allergic reaction. But we're told they don't expect it to have any long-term effects on his health.

Rutherford's chief of staff, Kelly Simpson, said:

"Congressman Rutherford's recovery continues to go very well.  He remains at a local hospital for rest, treatment, and observation.  Doctors treating Mr. Rutherford believe that the acute digestive flare up that generated the discomfort he experienced was caused by a serious allergic reaction to an antibiotic that he was taking for a cold.  Though obviously very painful, it is not medically severe nor does it carry long-term health implications, which is excellent news.  The doctors continue to treat his inflammation and expect him to be released early next week as the inflammation continues to subside.  John and his family remain so grateful for all the goodwill and support from friends, neighbors, and colleagues this week."

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