POLICE were called to a County Durham hospital this afternoon amid fears a patient had been struck down by the deadly Ebola virus.

Officers were sent to Darlington Memorial Hospital after being alerted by health officials.

Police monitored the exits of the hospital in response to reports that the patient was displaying ebola-like symptoms, but the illness was later confirmed as being non-infectious.

Acting Sgt Mark Barron of Darlington Police, said: “Initially there were reports of a patient displaying some symptoms associated with Ebola.

“Procedure dictates that we cover all exits and try and limit the likelihood of that (Ebola) spreading, but on this occasion it wasn’t the case.”

A spokesman for Darlington Memorial Hospital said last night there were no risks to the wider public.

“A patient presented at the emergency department at Darlington Memorial Hospital today who was identified as possibly having an infectious disease when answering standard questions during check in at reception," he said. 

“In line with procedure the patient was isolated and the department was closed for a short period of time while tests were carried out. 

“Tests confirmed the patient did not have an infectious disease. 

“The emergency department is running as usual and there is no risk to patients attending the department.”

More than 10,000 deaths from Ebola have been recorded in West Africa since the first of the current outbreak was recorded in March 2014.

Seven UK healthworkers have been flown back for treatment after suspected contact with Ebola. Three were admitted to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Newcastle which is one of four hospitals nationwide capable of dealing with such cases as its infectious diseases unit. 

  • Did you witness the incident at the hospital? Email newsdesk@nne.co.uk or call 01325-505064.