The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is aware of reports that the US Department of Defense will no longer require annual influenza (flu) vaccination for military personnel.
“Flu is a serious and potentially life-threatening respiratory disease that can lead to significant illness, hospitalization, and missed work or duty. Getting an annual flu vaccine is the best way to help prevent flu and its potentially severe complications,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “Even in years when vaccine effectiveness varies, vaccination has been shown to reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. For populations in close living and working environments, such as military personnel, flu can spread quickly and impact operational readiness. Maintaining high vaccination coverage is a proven strategy to reduce outbreaks and protect both individuals and communities.”
NFID strongly encourages everyone age 6 months and older, including members of the US military and their families, to receive an annual flu vaccine. Vaccination not only helps protect the person who receives it, but also helps safeguard colleagues, families, and communities, including those at higher risk of serious flu-related complications.
“Decisions about vaccination policies should be guided by scientific evidence and public health best practices,” Hopkins said. “NFID remains committed to providing clear, evidence-based information to help individuals make informed decisions about the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, including seasonal influenza.”
About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, and to access trusted science-based resources on immunization for both healthcare professionals and the public, visit www.nfid.org.
Contact: communications@nfid.org