Filipino seaman tests negative for Ebola

MANILA, Philippines – The reported Filipino seaman showing symptoms of Ebola while on a Greek ship has tested negative for the deadly virus, according to the Philippine Embassy in Athens.

“Our Embassy in Athens were informed by the manager of the Greek-flagged carrier ‘Magda’ that the Filipino seaman was diagnosed to be suffering from malaria and complications of the liver,” Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose said in a text message late Wednesday.

“The doctor ruled out the possibility of Ebola. The seaman is currently confined in a Greek private hospital,” he said.

Magda, a cargo ship on its way from Guinea to Ukraine, had to stop off the coast of Athens Monday to allow doctors to examine the Filipino as well as the crew composed of 10 Greek and 14 Filipinos.

Ebola has killed more than 5,000 people mostly in the West African countries of Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone.

“The DFA and Embassy will continue to monitor the condition of Filipino seaman,” Jose said.

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