A German national with Ebola-like symptoms, who recently visited Sierra Leone and was put into isolation at the Rwanda Military Hospital in Kanombe, has tested negative for the deadly virus.

The patient tested positive for malaria and was treated accordingly.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Agnès Binagwaho, confirmed that the man is now doing well and anticipated to full and speedy recovery.

"I can now confirm a recent suspected case that underwent testing was found to test negative for Ebola virus disease,” Dr. Binagwaho said in a press statement shared with The New Times.

The man had complained of fever, diarrhea and general weakness.

The Ministry of Health had put in place increased infection-control procedures after the patient was admitted.

Dr. Binagwaho said health professionals responded appropriately and showed that the systems in place to keep the virus in check and protect the Rwandan people worked.

The Ministry pointed out that the initial symptoms of Ebola, such as fever, headache, and muscle pain are similar to common diseases and the patient was therefore tested as a precautionary measure.

"Rwandans should know that we are fully prepared should any Ebola case appear in the country,” the Ministry said, adding that "We will continue to be vigilant as well as strengthen the prevention mechanisms in place”.

The suspected case was the first in the country.

The Ebola virus is not airborne and is spread through direct contact with bodily fluids such as blood, urine, saliva and diarrhea. Early symptoms of Ebola include fever, vomiting and muscle pain, and are similar to those of more common diseases such as flu and malaria.