George Clooney was terrified he had caught malaria during a visit to Darfur.

The 'Ocean's Thirteen' actor - who has visited the war-torn region several times - thought he had contracted the deadly disease during his latest trip to the African country last month.

The 45-year-old actor was reportedly complaining of weight loss and exhaustion, which are common symptoms of the disease.

A source told the New York Post newspaper: "George was very thin and exhausted for a time.

"But he is the consummate professional and never complained."

However, Clooney was relieved when it turned out he was simply suffering from food poisoning.