Does any one know if the Covid-19 vaccine is mandatory in the military or if it is going to be?

Roger Smith — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 00:08:23 -0500

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2020 12:12 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 00:12:23 -0500

Wait till you take Small Pox, and Anthrax.

CV19 is the least of your worries.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2020 12:53 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 00:53:14 -0500

We don't know yet. I'm sure we will be told of it is.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2020 1:03 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 01:03:05 -0500

Tin Foil hat theories say we already have been given the shot.

Last year there was a very strange push that all us USAR soldiers get flu shots on time. My point being in my 10 years yea we always got shots, but never before were Full COL's pushing down counseling statements making sure everyone in their command got them all the way to the E1's.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2020 1:36 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 01:36:15 -0500

It hasn’t been officially said to my knowledge but yes.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2020 2:22 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 02:22:38 -0500

Does it really matter? Considering all the other vaccinations you will receive when coming in, does it really matter?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2020 8:22 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 08:22:29 -0500

What is the penalty for refusing to take a rushed experimental vaccine for an illness with a 99% survival rate?

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Dec 6 at 2020 11:26 AM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 11:26:09 -0500

Oh, hell yes it will be mandatory. They were still giving Gamma Globulin shots for Cholera when I was still active. Your arm felt like it was going to fall off with that one.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Dec 6 at 2020 12:03 PM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 12:03:48 -0500

Eventually it will be mandatory just like the others on the massive list of vaccinations Military members get. Military folks get a large amount of vaccinations already and if that is an issue for you that may be something to think on. But considering nothing has been released or initiated outside of testing I wouldn't put the cart in front of the horse just yet in regards to COVID. But eventually we will have a vaccine and eventually it will be mandatory for Military.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2020 4:05 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 16:05:55 -0500

If you're in a location that has a risk for a disease and there's a vaccine for it, you'll receive it. From Japanese encephalitis, to H1N1, to Anthrax, Rabies, and Yellow Fever - you'll be vaccinated against whatever threat is in your area.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2020 4:33 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 16:33:12 -0500

The only thing I've seen is that the first people who are going to get the vaccine in the military will be: "Health care workers and emergency and safety personnel will likely be the first servicemembers to receive the vaccine since they are most likely to come in contact with the infected." So that's who gets it first since they're more likely to be interacting with covid patients. Then they'll filter on down the ranks after that. Everyone is going to get it eventually sounds like.

Response by SGT Herbert Bollum made Dec 6 at 2020 6:36 PM

SGT Herbert Bollum — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 18:36:40 -0500

When they say get shots you get them. They might not even tell you what you are getting, depends on the person doing it.

Response by Cpl Vic Burk made Dec 6 at 2020 7:06 PM

Cpl Vic Burk — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 19:06:00 -0500

Personally I think it should be optional. It is untested and I am not willing to be a guinea pig. After it has been out a few years we will see what the outcome it. The way I see it is, if I die from COVID it was my time to go.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Dec 7 at 2020 6:15 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 06:15:14 -0500

So far, no. However, I feel it should be.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2020 10:15 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 10:15:26 -0500

Roger Smith ... The plan is not finalized for the distribution schedule (just what I've gathered with online research- no inside info). But I've learned is that Medical Professionals/First Responders will be immunized first (along with military medical personnel) along with those who are most at risk (those in long term care facilities- elderly population over 65 with co-morbidities).

Not sure on when the rest of the active military/reserves will have to be immunized, this is TBD. I would think that it would be 2nd or 3rd QTR of the calendar year 2021 as more supplies of the vaccine becomes available.

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Dec 7 at 2020 3:07 PM

LtCol Robert Quinter — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 15:07:39 -0500

There has been no listing that contains the military that I have seen, but I would bet money you will. The reason you get immunizations is to ensure you are capable of performing your duties and your unit is not deadlined because their personnel strength is inadequate. Covid is world wide so if you need the immunization to ensure you can be deployed and you do not represent a hazard to the rest of your unit.
I've read opinions in this thread that it is experimental, once the FDA approves it, it is no longer experimental unless the FDA classifies it as such.

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Dec 8 at 2020 12:29 PM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Tue, 08 Dec 2020 12:29:53 -0500

I would bet every dollar in my 401K it will be mandatory for military.

Response by SSG Omar Ruiz-Canales made Dec 14 at 2020 11:11 PM

SSG Omar Ruiz-Canales — Mon, 14 Dec 2020 23:11:37 -0500

lol.. in the military you are subjected to take anything required by the government.. maybe you'll get the option of nasal spray..lol

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2020 9:22 AM

LTJG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 09:22:01 -0500

They cannot make it mandatory currently since it’s only authorized in the emergency FDA setting. If it’s fully authorized, it will probably be mandatory unless there is proven allergy issues (similar to the annual flu shot).

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2020 11:27 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 11:27:42 -0500

It’s not mandatory...yet

Response by TSgt Philip Sales made Dec 17 at 2020 12:56 PM

TSgt Philip Sales — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 12:56:26 -0500

I'm sure it will be. I'm surprised they weren't part of the pre-test

Response by TSgt George Austin made Dec 17 at 2020 1:10 PM

TSgt George Austin — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 13:10:42 -0500

Of course it will be mandatory. I was part of the experimental Anthrax vaccine program. I watched so many get sick, and extremely ill. All for money. Officers were allowed to resign on the spot while enlisted got read charges for disobeying a lawful order.

Response by TSgt Robert Wayne made Dec 17 at 2020 2:18 PM

TSgt Robert Wayne — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 14:18:35 -0500

The flu shot has always been mandatory I don't see why the covid shot would not be mandatory.

Response by SFC Edwin Alices made Dec 17 at 2020 2:50 PM

SFC Edwin Alices — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 14:50:10 -0500

In Germany it is voluntary for SM and DoD civilians

Response by LTC George Eaton made Dec 17 at 2020 9:44 PM

LTC George Eaton — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 21:44:33 -0500

No it is not so long as it has emergency approval from FDA. After it is fully approved, it will, I expect, be mandatory.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Dec 17 at 2020 10:34 PM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 22:34:31 -0500

If the military decides you need a shot, you get the shot. It will not be optional.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2020 1:31 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 01:31:22 -0500

It’s pretty funny how one believes they have ‘options’. The options are attitude of orders.
Currently I‘m getting inquires about refusals due to religious affiliation. Hard eye roll. Especially when the IMR has long history of sporadic compliance of medical readiness.
If you’re concerned - learn regulations, policies, DODi; make an appointment with CG to express how ETP is appropriate for you.
Or doctor a .pdf stating you already received it.
I just *love* looking up to verify Lot#.

As a medical admin I just shake my head with the stuff I get to process. Nostalgic of how I was raised (by a Vietnam MP/DS vet); no one is forcing a volunteer career and the standards on y’all.
I understand how *good* it feels safe about expressing opinions. I’m doing it now.

But I find it funny those who don’t take care of themselves- suffer little but the others around them; greater. Medically, physically, professionally, financially. Curious.

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Dec 18 at 2020 3:14 AM

LCpl Cody Collins — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 03:14:08 -0500

I hope employers don’t make it mandatory! I can see the court battles and law suits now. Employers are not medical professional and according to HIPPA. Me as an individual have rights to the privacy of my medical information. When I was growing up, it wasn’t mandatory to get vaccinated for small pox, T. B. Anthrax or even V.D. H1N1. This particular virus is based more on political affiliation and fear factors. I remember all the news reports on the ( Swine Flu ) don’t eat the chicken ! Then ( Mad Cow ) disease. Watching news footage of cows supposedly going nuts from eating corn feed mixed with birds dung, Give me a break! Besides all that if the employers make this a mandatory issue for employment and just one employee that took the vaccination shot and still spread the virus. And it can be proven, that employer will be litigated into the poor house. And don’t sign any waivers absolving the employer from litigation . So far from never contracted COVID-19 , I’m not a carrier or any of the aforementioned way to spread this anti- Trump virus. I never had the disease , so I don’t need the shot.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2020 8:04 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 08:04:49 -0500

The Pfizer and Moderna COVID vaccine will be voluntary, since it is being used under an Emergency Use Agreement (EUA). Unless POTUS signs a waiver no one can be directed to take the vaccine, only encouraged. The current priorities for Militray are front line Healthcare Workers (ICU/ER), critical support staff, and Emergency Services (Police and Fire Dept.). The main force can expect to see the vaccine as early as Feb-Mar 2021. The efficacy of both vaccines is very high (90-94%) when compared to the Flu Vaccine (50%). They used new but ok’d science, the mRNA which is not COVID but tricks the body into thinking it has COVId so it can build immunity. You won’t get sick but will feel some minor symptoms for three days following the shot. I hope this helps.

Response by Sgt Arthur Bustamante made Dec 18 at 2020 6:25 PM

Sgt Arthur Bustamante — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 18:25:00 -0500

I don't think anyone other than the powers that be (politicians) know. We just need to wait, listen or read our emails or news bulletins. But thanks for your concern.

Another US veteran

Response by Sgt Arthur Bustamante made Dec 18 at 2020 6:38 PM

Sgt Arthur Bustamante — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 18:38:03 -0500

Why sweat over whether Covid19 vaccine is mandatory or not? As a military man or has been, you don't question your superiors. Now, when you're out: sweat it out all you want. As for me, anytime and everytime there's vaccine available for veterans, I take 'em. Heck, you gave up your life once when you served (or was forced by draft), why question it now? The VA will always protect those that protected, and even those that were forced (drafted) to protect the US during, before and after any given war that threatened US values of life and property. Hear me?

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Dec 19 at 2020 1:08 AM

SMSgt Bob Wilson — Sat, 19 Dec 2020 01:08:16 -0500

What do you think? Roll up your sleeve.

Response by PO2 Ed Taylor made Dec 19 at 2020 1:04 PM

PO2 Ed Taylor — Sat, 19 Dec 2020 13:04:24 -0500

According to the V the first first doses will be gave to the vets in rest, assisted living and then to medical personnel. then it will go yo the vets as notified by their va team.
As for active of course you will really have no choice. You are given medications and shots as needed to allow you to keep your mission whatever it is and complete your assigned duties.and it can also depend on where you are or will be. That was way back when in the sixties.
ED TAYLOR PO2/SGT TNG NCO ARNG

Response by SFC Chuck Martinez made Dec 19 at 2020 7:52 PM

SFC Chuck Martinez — Sat, 19 Dec 2020 19:52:43 -0500

The last I heard, for now, US troops won't be required to get the vaccine. The DOD have said that inoculations will remain voluntary once the FDA give the OK. I know that during Desert Strom, all were required to take the anthrax vaccine!! I wonder what was the change of heart???

Response by PVT William Murphy made Dec 24 at 2020 3:50 PM

PVT William Murphy — Thu, 24 Dec 2020 15:50:32 -0500

Don't know if it's mandatory for active duty, but it is going to be available for veterans. You can sign up on the VA website and learn more.

https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/82728/va-begin-covid-19-vaccinations-128-additional-sites/

VA to begin COVID-19 vaccinations at 128 additional sites - VAntage Point

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will begin COVID-19 vaccinations this week at 128 additional sites using the Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines.

Response by 1SG Alexis Ruiz made Dec 31 at 2020 10:27 PM

1SG Alexis Ruiz — Thu, 31 Dec 2020 22:27:26 -0500

Ha,ha,ha, this is real. Are you stupid, dumb or what??

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2021 7:54 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Jan 2021 07:54:11 -0500

At this time COVID-19 vaccination is not mandatory. Army is currently conducting a survey on who wants the vaccination, who is considering it, who will discuss with their doctor, etc. That could change, or perhaps it won't, I think a lot of it will come down to the commander and how the commander feels about the vaccination.

Response by SSG R R made Jan 4 at 2021 11:16 AM

SSG R R — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 11:16:12 -0500

*laugh in DD214*

Most likely... the Smallpox, Anthrax, and several other vaccinations are or have been mandatory at some point or are still. This is just one more to the list.

Response by SGT Robert Martin made Jan 13 at 2021 3:55 PM

SGT Robert Martin — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 15:55:04 -0500

When was the last time you were asked if it was okay to give you a vaccine?? Well by a milliary doc anyways. just be happy it's been approved by the fda before they gave it to you......as far as you know

Response by PVT Anthony Warf made Jan 21 at 2021 6:49 PM

PVT Anthony Warf — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 18:49:25 -0500

The plaque series ws nice also.

Response by SSG Branyn Burkhart made Jan 27 at 2021 8:04 AM

SSG Branyn Burkhart — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 08:04:46 -0500

If it’s going to mandatory, they’ll let you know.

Response by SSgt Kelly D. made Jan 27 at 2021 4:21 PM

SSgt Kelly D. — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 16:21:01 -0500

I would expect it to be eventually. My Navy son is sitting on the Nimitz and after looking at 4 metal walls all these long months he has volunteered for the vaccine hoping it might allow him to get leave sooner. I advised him not to get it as I believe it was rolled out too fast but he definitely has a mind of his own, lol. Praying he doesn't come home a zombie ;-)

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 21 at 2021 9:50 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Feb 2021 09:50:15 -0500

Well the last I heard it was still voluntary but they seem to be moving towards coercion and then the next step after that they will make it mandatory.

Response by Cpl Thomas Wiklanski made Feb 23 at 2021 5:43 PM

Cpl Thomas Wiklanski — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 17:43:40 -0500

Any vaccine issued under an "emergency use authorization" is "experimental" and CANNOT be mandated. Once a vaccine is fully approved, it can be mandated. The covid vaccines are still "experimental"...