The threat of an anthrax attack against our military forces is well-documented and very real–and the vaccine is very necessary. Peter Gorner’s article “Protest grows against use of anthrax vaccine” (News, May 17) does a disservice to service members if it results in them being unprotected from the deadly threat of anthrax.
Today, at least 10 countries, including Iraq and North Korea, now have–or are attempting to acquire or produce–deadly chemical and biological weapons.
Within the realm of biological warfare, anthrax remains the weapon of choice. For those who inhale anthrax but have not been vaccinated or treated, death is the ultimate and predictable outcome. For the unvaccinated, the onset of clinical symptoms means that most will die. The FDA-approved anthrax vaccine provides our men and women in uniform with their best chance of survival.
The Department of Defense continues to rely on and work closely with external medical and scientific experts who help to actively guide the current program. The Institute of Medicine concludes that published studies have reported no significant adverse effects of the vaccine. IOM also strongly encourages– and the department wholeheartedly endorses–stronger studies. IOM has agreed to undertake such a study.
Let’s focus on facts. The fact is that this vaccine is as safe as other commonly used vaccines. Like other vaccines, it may result in localized reactions, such as soreness or itching at the injection site, and a very small number (less than one-tenth of a percent) may experience more serious reactions. The fact is that some people oppose this vaccination, or any vaccination. And, the fact is that some who oppose our anthrax protection effort sometimes exaggerate the legitimate concerns. When this happens, it is our citizens in uniform who lose out, who risk their lives if exposed to anthrax while unprotected.
We have an obligation to give our men and women in uniform the best protection available from all major threats. Anthrax is one of the most deadly threats our people face; and the vaccine offers safe and effective protection.
