Illinois Department of Public Health Statement

CHICAGO – Today, Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck announced negative Ebola test results.

“The Illinois Department of Public Health conducted testing for Ebola, which was negative, of an individual who recently travelled from West Africa,” said Dr. Hasbrouck. “The individual was experiencing a fever and respiratory symptoms and was transported to a hospital following stringent infection control protocols. In addition to medical evaluation and after consultation involving the hospital, the Chicago Department of Public Health, IDPH and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, IDPH performed testing for Ebola as a precaution. The test results were negative for Ebola.

“At this time, there have been no confirmed cases of Ebola in Illinois and there is no threat to the general public. Travelers from Africa may experience illnesses such as malaria or respiratory illness due to other non-Ebola associated diseases.

“The statewide Ebola Task Force, announced October 22 by Governor Pat Quinn, along with hospitals and local health departments across Illinois will continue to work together to quickly identify a person who could potentially be at risk of Ebola, and take quick action in order to protect the health and safety of all Illinois residents.”

For more information, visit http://www.idph.state.il.us/ebola/index.htm.

To respect and protect the individual’s privacy, no additional information is available and no media availability.