DENVER — Colorado health officials announced late Monday night that a Denver Health Medical Center patient under observation for possible Ebola virus exposure tested negative for the virus.
Early Monday morning, a spokesman for Denver Health Medical Center said the patient from Arvada had recently returned from areas of Africa where the Ebola virus was present and was being monitored.
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The patient remained isolated for continuing observation.
A Denver Health spokesman said the patient was transported in a specialized ambulance, which as been taken out of service. The patient was not treated in the ER and “other patients at Denver Health were not exposed,” the spokesman said.
“The patient is in a room that is isolated from other areas of the hospital, and only health care professionals directly involved in patient care are allowed in the area,” the hospital said. “A specialized care team is assigned to the patient and will not be caring for any other patients.”
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According to the Denver Health spokesperson, symptoms for Ebola may appear anywhere between 2-21 days after exposure.
Symptoms include:
- fever
- muscle pain
- weakness
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- abdominal pain
- lack of appetite
Denver Health says it’s ready for Ebola
Back in September, when Ebola made headlines across the country, Denver Health said they were prepared to handle patients with the virus.
The hospital has designated rooms for evaluation and a containment room where a patient could stay long-term.
This story will be updated as more information is received.