The United States military is preparing to set up a temporary Ebola quarantine facility in central Kenya as concerns grow over the spread of the virus in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.
Reports indicate that the facility could become operational within a week under a directive linked to President Donald Trump’s administration.
The planned field hospital is expected to begin with space for 50 patients, although officials say it can be expanded to accommodate up to 250 beds if the situation worsens. Prefabricated medical units are reportedly being transported by air and road to allow for quick deployment. The project is aimed at helping manage possible Ebola exposure cases involving American citizens working in or near affected regions.
According to reports, the operation is being coordinated by the U.S. Departments of State, Defense, and Health and Human Services. Kenya has reportedly been selected because of its location near eastern DRC, making it suitable for monitoring and stabilizing exposed individuals before they are evacuated to the United States for further treatment.
American authorities have already reported several Ebola exposure cases involving U.S. nationals in the region. Some individuals have reportedly been transferred to Germany and the Czech Republic for observation, while others remain under monitoring. One confirmed Ebola infection involving an American national has also been reported in the DRC.
The move comes as the United States tightens its border health controls. Officials have stated that individuals infected with Ebola will not be allowed entry into the country, while screening measures at airports and other entry points have been increased.
Reports further show that U.S. Public Health Service personnel are undergoing rapid training ahead of deployment to Kenya. However, concerns have reportedly been raised internally about whether the short preparation period will be enough for such a sensitive operation.
In Kenya, health officials have assured the public that measures are already in place to deal with any potential threat. Authorities say the country has activated its Incident Management System, increased surveillance at entry points, improved laboratory testing capacity, and strengthened coordination between national and county governments.
The planned facility has also drawn attention over questions surrounding preparedness, logistics, and the role of foreign military medical operations during a regional health emergency.
