Anthrax shots mandatory for some wing members

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. William Huntington
  • 442nd Fighter Wing public affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  The Deputy Secretary of Defense recently announced the resumption of the mandatory anthrax vaccine immunization program for selected military members, including members of the 442nd Fighter Wing slated for deployment to certain locations.

Airmen with orders to, or currently in, specific high-threat areas, such as the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility or the Korean peninsula, are affected by the mandate and are directed to initiate, or in some cases resume, the anthrax inoculation regimen.

"The vaccine is here," said Tech. Sgt. Jamie Fierro, NCOIC of flight medicine and physical exams. "Members who were already on the series, no matter where they stopped, can pick up where they left off. They don't have to start the series over."

The AVIP program was temporarily suspended following a court order in October 2004 when the company then contracted to produce the vaccine came under scrutiny.

Following an extensive evaluation, the Food and Drug Administration has approved a new source for the vaccine and, in December 2005, determined that the vaccine is safe and effective for the prevention of anthrax regardless of the mode of exposure.

To provide the best possible protection, the anthrax vaccine requires an initial series of six shots over the course of 18 months and a booster shot each year after that.

The inoculation program is also available to those who voluntarily choose to resume the series.

"As it stands right now (members) are highly encouraged to come in and volunteer to continue their series," Sergeant Fierro said. "But, there isn't any mandate right now for 100 percent coverage."

Members should have started the series at least 60 days prior to deploying or arriving in the high-threat area.

"Most people tolerate anthrax vaccination without significant reactions," said Col. Tim Bennett, command public health officer for Headquarters Air Force Reserve Command at Robins Air Force Base, Ga. "As with most vaccines, some may experience temporary pain and swelling in their arm at the site of the injection. If they have any concerns about a reaction, they should talk with a health-care provider."

Sergeant Fierro, just back from intensive training on the program, doesn't see any problems with the vaccine and wants to put anyone with misgivings about it at ease.

"We wouldn't give you anything that isn't safe. We wouldn't," Sergeant Fierro said. "Everyone here in the medical squadron has had the anthrax series and we're okay. If you do have any questions or concerns, feel free to call us. We'll be more than happy to help you."

For more on the AVIP go to www.anthrax.mil.