All Branch Topic (ABT) Is this true?

[Incis0r]

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[distressstudent]

You mean something similar to this?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthrax_Vaccine_Immunization_Program

 

[Incis0r]

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[Hedgy]

Exactly, and in particular, this paragraph bugs me:

"While some military personnel had questions about the safety of the vaccine, it was considered a lawful order at that time, and this made refusing the vaccine at peril of the subordinate, including possible discharge (i.e., losing their job and any benefits depending on the type of discharge). This pressure, at least for the National Guard and Reserve pilots and crewmembers, became a deciding retention factor.[7]"

The fact that this Anthrax program went on for so long...even if it is corrected now, thousands were forced to take it. I have heard that when you join the military, they own you. That puts you in a position of real vulnerability. So, my question is- Do they abuse this and take advantage of you like that? If they can do something that it took YEARS to deem illegal, what else could they get away with?

Very scary stuff.

Here's another article on its long-lasting, severe consequences for those who took it: http://www.whiteoutpress.com/articl...suffer-18-years-after-forced-anthrax-vaccine/

I was deployed in the Med when all of this was going on. I can't give you things in detail, only what I experienced. At the time, they were going to make all personnel get vaccinated and "whoa be to you who refused". Then there was a lot of public outcry against the vaccine, thus they make it optional or that you can refuse it. It never became an issue on my ship and it never was administered.

I can't speak for those that were actually in Iraq other than my colleague who was with the Marines and had the vaccine. Nothing like SCUD warnings, having to don MOPP gear, and the threat of chemical weapons to make one want the vaccine. He did not recall anyone having issue with the vaccine other than a lot of bitching having to get it.

That being said, you better make sure you have all your vaccines up to date when you enter the service or you WILL get them updated. There is no refusal of immunization based on your feelings that they are not needed.

 

[Incis0r]

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[Incis0r]

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