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How the concept of 'medical freedom' is reshaping the military’s decades-long stance on the flu vaccine mandate − and endangering troops’ readiness

For the first time in almost 80 years, U.S. service members will no longer be mandated to receive the annual influenza vaccine. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the change on April 22, 2026.
New York Post

Hegseth announces end to military flu vaccine requirement: ‘We will not force you’

War Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the end of the Pentagon’s long-running flu vaccine mandate for US troops. “The War Department is once again restoring freedom to our Joint Force,” Hegseth ...
Forbes

Doctors Say Hegseth’s Flu Vaccine Decision Will Weaken Military Readiness

This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more. This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more. SAVANNAH, GA - JANUARY 20: PPfc. Jacob Jennings vaccinates a soldier from the Third Infantry ...
New Haven Register

How the concept of ‘medical freedom’ is reshaping the military’s decades-long stance on the flu vaccine mandate − and endangering troops’ readiness

(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.) Katrine L. Wallace, University of Illinois Chicago (THE CONVERSATION) For the first ...