Anthrax vaccinations are mandatory again Published March 5, 2007 By Capt. Melissa Laughrey 71st Medical Operations Squadron VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The deputy Secretary of Defense ordered mandatory anthrax vaccinations to resume Oct.12, 2006. The vaccinations are required for military and emergency-essential personnel, comparable Department of Defense civilian employees and certain contractor personnel deployed (or deploying within 60 days) to U.S. Central Command or Korea areas of responsibility for 15 or more consecutive days. It also pertains to uniformed servicemembers assigned to special units such as forward deployed forces and units with biodefense related missions. Additionally, the anthrax vaccine is now voluntary for uniformed and civilian personnel who had at least one dose of anthrax vaccine and want to continue the series. A complete series of vaccinations consists of six immunizations with an annual booster available. U.S. government civilian employees, contractors and family members of DOD personnel in USCENTCOM or Korea for 15 or more consecutive days are also eligible. The assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs approved the Air Force plan for resuming mandatory anthrax vaccinations Feb. 8. To comply with written guidance, Vance AFB will begin mandatory vaccinations March 8. Appointments to receive the vaccination are not required. The Immunizations Clinic is open 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. The clinic is closed on Thursdays after 2 p.m. for training. For more information, call the 71st Medical Group Immunizations Clinic at 213-7209.