The Trump administration is constructing a quarantine and treatment facility in Kenya for Americans affected by the Ebola outbreak, instead of bringing them home. The White House confirmed the move on Wednesday, citing the need for high-quality care without the risks of lengthy transport to the US.

The facility will reportedly treat Americans who contract Ebola, including critical care needs, though further transport to the US or Europe may be considered on a case-by-case basis. However, officials did not clarify whether Americans could refuse transfer to Kenya and return home.

The US has banned green card holders who recently traveled to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan from returning, along with other recent travelers from these countries. This policy has drawn sharp criticism from public health experts.

Jennifer Nuzzo, an epidemiologist at Brown University, called the approach "profoundly unethical," warning that inadequate quarantine plans could amplify virus spread. She noted that the prospect of not returning home may discourage disclosure of exposure, driving cases underground.

Jeremy Konyndyk, president of Refugees International and former USAID official, argued that the policy disincentivizes American health workers from volunteering to combat the outbreak. He recalled that during the 2014 Ebola epidemic, the US avoided travel bans precisely because they were counterproductive.

Source: www.theguardian.com