Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond has said it is "most unlikely" that Ebola could spread within the UK but "precautionary measures" have been put in place.
Mr Hammond was speaking after a meeting of the Government's emergency committee, Cobra, to discuss what he earlier called a "new and emerging" threat.
Doctors in Britain have been put on alert to spot symptoms of the deadly disease, which has killed more than 670 people in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea and Nigeria since February in what is the largest outbreak in history.
Infection results from direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids and tissues of infected animals or people.
Speaking before the meeting, Mr Hammond told Sky News that while there are no cases in the UK, Prime Minister David Cameron regards the disease as a "very serious threat".
UK and European flight routes to the countries affected by ebola "We are very much focused on it as a new and emerging threat which we need to deal with," Mr Hammond said.
A person from Birmingham was tested for ebola after returning from Africa, but the tests came back negative.
The man was tested earlier this week after reportedly travelling from Benin in Nigeria via Paris to the Midlands.
Another man visited Charing Cross Hospital in London after fearing he had the virus, but doctors decided he did not need an ebola test.
Dr Brian McCloskey, director of global health at Public Health England (PHE), said the risk to British travellers and workers was low, but doctors needed to be vigilant for "unexplained illnesses" in those who have returned from the affected countries.
Medical staff prepare to bring food to patients in an isolation area Dr McCloskey said: "The continuing increase in cases, especially in Sierra Leone, and the importation of a single case from Liberia to Nigeria is a cause for concern as it indicates the outbreak is not yet under control."
Those who experience symptoms should "immediately seek medical assistance", Dr McCloskey said.
British Airways, which flies to Sierra Leone and Nigeria, said in a statement it complies with guidance from local health authorities and will "continue to monitor the situation closely".
Cabin crew are advised to contact air traffic control if they see someone on board who they suspect could have the disease.
Countries affected by the ebola outbreak In 2012, a man with Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever, which is related to ebola, was flown from Glasgow Airport to London by the RAF to be treated at the Royal Free Hospital in north London.
A Department of Health spokesman said: "We are well-prepared to identify and deal with any potential cases of ebola, though there has never been a case in this country.
"Any patients with suspected symptoms can be diagnosed within 24 hours and they would also be isolated at a dedicated unit to keep the public safe."
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