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Flu Outbreak at Lackland Air Force Base Sparks Call for Mandatory Vaccinations

KVIA••CNN Newsource
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A flu outbreak among recruits at Lackland Air Force Base has sickened at least 275 individuals since early June, prompting renewed calls for mandatory flu vaccinations. The outbreak coincided with a recent decision by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to make flu shots optional, which was reversed on June 11, allowing unvaccinated trainees to receive the vaccine. Tragically, a recruit died on June 16, though it remains unclear if this was related to the flu outbreak. The situation highlights the impact of policy changes on military health protocols and raises concerns about national security and troop readiness.

Key Details: • 275 recruits at Lackland Air Force Base have contracted the flu since early June. • Mandatory flu vaccinations were reinstated on June 11 after a lapse in requirement. • A recruit died on June 16; the cause of death is under investigation. • 60% of unvaccinated trainees initially declined the flu shot before the mandate was reinstated.

health military vaccination lackland flu-outbreak

People & Organizations

Pete HegsethPentagonU.S. Air ForceSean ParnellJoaquin CastroKeith BassAnthony TataTerry AdirimLackland Air Force Base

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