Approval of appropriate operational plans to administer the immunizations and communications plans to inform military people of the overall program. This is an important new dimension to overall force protection. The anthrax vaccination will join other immunizations we already give everyone in the military. The anthrax vaccine is FDA-licensed and exhibits fewer side effects than flu or typhoid vaccines. It has been widely used in the United States since the early 1970s by livestock workers and veterinarians.
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 10 countries have or are suspected of developing a biological warfare capability. DOD will immediately begin consultations with Congress and other federal government agencies and will brief military people. Details of the schedule for the total force vaccinations will be determined as the program moves forward.