The immunization program will consist of a series of six inoculations per service member over an 18-month period, followed by an annual booster. Although protection levels increase as shots in the series are given, the entire six- shot series is required for full protection. The Secretary of the Army is the executive agent for the effort, including procurement of the vaccine, tracking and oversight of the vaccination program, and coordinating with other service secretaries on the execution of the program. Because of the mobility of military personnel, Cohen said he must be satisfied there is a medical management system in place to track individuals through the series before the immunizations begin. The Secretary of the Army, as executive agent, will serve as the focal point for the submission of information from the services.
Anthrax is a disease that normally afflicts animals, especially cattle and sheep.
Anthrax spores can be produced in a dry form that can be incorporated into weapons. When inhaled by humans, these particles cause severe pneumonia and death within a week. At least ten countries have or are suspected of developing a biological warfare capability. Even though the plan has been reviewed extensively in the Pentagon, Cohen directed that it be independently assessed before implementation by Dr. Gerald N. Burrow of Yale University, who serves as Special Advisor to the Yale President for Health Affairs. But we also want to make sure that our overall immunization program is safe and effective.