An influenza outbreak has affected over 150 recruits in training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. This situation arises shortly after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made flu vaccinations optional, emphasizing the importance of bodily autonomy for service members.
Hegseth stated, “We’re using this opportunity to eliminate overreaching mandates that undermine our military effectiveness.” He added, “Your body, your beliefs, and your convictions are non-negotiable.”
Reports indicate that 159 recruits have fallen ill, with only around 40% choosing to get vaccinated after the mandate was lifted. In contrast, about 46% of adults received the flu vaccine during the 2025-26 cold season, according to the CDC.
Lackland, part of Joint Base San Antonio—often referred to as Military City—features communal living arrangements that can facilitate the spread of airborne illnesses.
The recent death of a trainee, Keon McDaniel, on June 16 is currently under investigation, and it remains unclear if it relates to the outbreak.
To combat the virus, Air Force officials have mandated flu vaccinations for recruits at Lackland. The Pentagon has directed inquiries to the Air Force press office, which has yet to respond.
