The United States House Committee on Foreign Affairs has raised concerns over Trump’s administration transferring American Ebola patients to Kenya for treatment. Lawmakers argue that the U.S. has the capacity and responsibility to care for its citizens, rather than relying on other foreign countries.
This comes as the global health systems remain on high alert following the recent Ebola cases in the DR Congo and Uganda. The committee has stated that the United States has specialized facilities capable of safely treating Ebola patients and it should handle itself.
Committee members stressed that the U.S. possesses advanced bio-containment facilities, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) units and specialized hospitals. The lawmakers have stated is contradictory to Washington’s approach particularly since the Trump administration had previously cut health funding in Africa, including Kenya.
The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and other major hospitals have played a critical role in tackling cholera, COVID-19 and other epidemics. Hosting Ebola patients will require an expansion of its global health responsibilities, positioning Kenya in a state of dilemma.
The proposal for the quarantine of Ebola patients is set to be built in Nanyuki in Laikipia County by the U.S. military, expected to accommodate 50 patients. Though the court has issued a pending statement concerning the U.S. citing it as a threat to Kenyan live.
This is not the first time the U.S. has faced scrutiny over Ebola response; during 2014 American patients were treated in Atlanta and Nebraska under strict protocols.
The committee has demanded clarity from the administration, urging a review is being conducted.
