Further distribution is highly encouraged.
This action is consistent with its previously announced plan to do so if supply was not increased by year's end. This further slowing reduces vaccinations in all theaters except Southwest Asia. This move is necessary to conserve available vaccine supply while protecting those service members at greatest risk and maintaining a contingency reserve for unexpected domestic or terrorist requirements. A full resumption of the vaccination effort will begin when a sufficient supply of FDA-approved and certified safe and effective vaccine is available next year. Anthrax remains the top biological warfare threat to U.S. troops and vaccination is the safest, most reliable way to protect service members from a potential threat that is 99 percent lethal to unprotected, untreated individuals.