"Flu Outbreak Hits Lackland Air Force Base: Dozens of Troops Fall Ill After Pentagon Ditches Mandatory Vaccines. A growing health crisis has struck Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, with over 160 troops contracting influenza in recent weeks. The alarming spike in cases comes on the heels of a decision made by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to end mandatory flu vaccines for service members earlier this year. The move has raised concerns among military leaders and health experts, who argue that mandatory vaccinations are crucial in protecting troops from the risks of flu-related illnesses, especially in high-stress environments. As the situation at Lackland Air Force Base continues to unfold, questions are being raised about the potential consequences of the Pentagon's decision on troop health and readiness."
More than 160 troops have contracted influenza at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas in the past few weeks following Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's decision earlier this year to end mandatory flu vaccines for service members, a source familiar with the matter told The Hill on Friday. The Air Force told The Hill that the...
