Military reinstates flu shot requirement after outbreak
Originally published Jun 24, 2026
By Beth Mole · Ars Technica
AI-generated summary based on Ars Technica · Aggregated by OffScreenSpace · Human-reviewed and approved on Jun 24, 2026
Key points
- A flu outbreak at Lackland Air Force Base sickened 222 recruits and hospitalized four.
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had recently made flu shots optional for military personnel.
- The Pentagon granted exceptions to restore flu shot mandates for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- The decision followed a review of risk assessments and operational health needs.
- The outbreak highlights the risks of infectious diseases in close military quarters.
The U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force have reinstated flu shot requirements for recruits following a significant outbreak at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. At least 222 recruits were infected, with four hospitalized and one death reported. The outbreak occurred just two months after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made flu shots optional, claiming the policy 'restored freedom.' The Pentagon granted exceptions to this policy after a 'comprehensive review,' citing the need to adapt health measures to operational realities. The decision aims to protect military readiness and safeguard at-risk populations.
Read the original story: Ars Technica — by Beth Mole