American officials have defended plans to set up an Ebola isolation centre in Kenya, arguing that the country’s location makes it well placed to support emergency responses during disease outbreaks in the region.
Speaking at the White House on June 2, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Mehmet Oz said Kenya’s proximity to countries that have previously recorded Ebola cases influenced the decision.
According to Oz, health experts often need to move quickly when dealing with highly infectious diseases. He explained that having treatment facilities closer to outbreak zones can help patients access specialised care without unnecessary delays.
The official noted that every minute matters during medical emergencies. He said health teams prefer treatment centres located near affected regions rather than transporting patients over long distances before care begins.
Oz added that the proposed facility is part of broader efforts aimed at strengthening preparedness against future disease outbreaks in Africa and other regions.
He expressed optimism that discussions between Washington and Nairobi would produce a solution acceptable to both countries. According to the CMS chief, officials from the United States and Kenya have already held several consultations regarding the project.
The remarks come as legal and public debate continues over plans linked to an Ebola isolation facility in Kenya. The issue recently attracted attention after court action temporarily halted progress on the project.
Oz also highlighted Kenya’s importance as a regional hub, saying the country has existing international partnerships and infrastructure that could support health emergency operations.
He pointed to the presence of international allies and institutions operating in Kenya as additional factors that make the country suitable for regional health initiatives.
The United States maintains that the facility would enhance emergency response capacity and improve preparedness for future outbreaks that may emerge within the region.
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