The family of a US citizen infected with Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where a rare strain of the virus has claimed over 130 lives, has been placed under isolation at the Berlin hospital treating him.
Germany’s health ministry announced on Thursday that the patient’s wife and four children were transported to Germany via a special flight and are currently being monitored as close contacts. It was not disclosed whether any family members have tested positive or are exhibiting symptoms.
The patient, identified by the Serge Christian mission organization as Dr. Peter Stafford, a medical missionary, is reported to be in stable condition by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Stafford contracted Ebola while providing medical care in the DRC, where he had been residing with his family.
Berlin’s Charité hospital was chosen for his treatment due to Germany’s proximity to the DRC, being approximately 12 hours closer than the United States, the White House. This information counters reports suggesting Washington opposed repatriating Stafford to the US.
German officials have not provided further details regarding the decision to admit the patient and his family to a Berlin hospital.
