A Minnesota man who recently returned home was diagnosed with Lassa fever. Doctors believe that he has acquired this rare disease during his West African travel.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Lassa fever is an acute viral disease usually transmitted to humans through food or household item contaminated by the African rodent excreta. It can also be acquired from a hospital environment that has very low infection control standards. Its common symptoms are similar to flu.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is trying to reach out to those who were in the same flight of the patient. They decided to keep the flight details and the passenger name to prevent further alarm. The patient was diagnosed with Lassa fever through blood test.

"This imported case is a reminder that we are all connected by international travel," said Dr. Tom Frieden, CDC director, to Star Tribune. "A disease anywhere can appear anywhere else in the world within hours."

The man reportedly had a connecting flight from New York City to West Africa to the Twin Cities. The health department estimated 140 passengers who may have come in contact with the patient during his return flight last April 3.

Meanwhile, the patient is already recovering from Lassa fever and the health department commended the medical team.

"The hospital has done an excellent job of caring for the patient and taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and protection of hospital staff, visitors and patients," said Dr. Ed Ehlinger, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Health, to Star Tribune.

On a positive note, there is no public risk of Lassa fever but the health department is monitoring the condition to ensure that the disease will not spread to other people. It also suggests that the stricter security measures are still needed in the airports because the patient was able to enter the country even if he is infected.