Suspected German Marburg virus cases test negative – POLITICO

“The person, who worked in a hospital in Rwanda as part of his medical studies, tested negative for the Marburg virus using a PCR test,” says a statement from the Hamburg social welfare office. “At no time did they have any complaints or symptoms consistent with the disease.”

Previous reports had suggested that the couple had developed flu-like symptoms on the train. The Hamburg fire department reported that one person suffered from mild vomiting.

“According to their own information, they had two contacts with a patient infected with the Marburg virus in the hospital around September 25th, which took place under appropriate protective equipment,” said the Hamburg authorities.

“The accompanying person also tested negative and has mild symptoms of another illness. The accompanying person had no contact with sick people.”

The medical student will continue to be monitored until the end of the incubation period of up to 21 days, the statement said.

“There was never any danger to fellow passengers on the train or plane.”

The Marburg virus causes fever with symptoms such as cramps, bloody vomit and diarrhea and has a mortality rate of up to 88 percent, according to the World Health Organization. People become infected through contact with the bodily fluids of infected victims.