The Secretary of Defense of the United States, Lloyd Austin, announced that he will include the coronavirus vaccine in the list of mandatory injections for all members of the Army before mid-September, thus following a request from the president, Joe Biden.

In a memorandum released Monday, Austin explained that he has made the decision after a week of consultations with the military’s high command and the Army’s medical services and that he will seek the approval of President Biden for the vaccine to be mandatory “at the latest” by mid-September or immediately after formal clearance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “whichever comes first.”

“In the meantime, we will comply with the president’s instructions regarding restrictions and requirements for unvaccinated federal personnel. These requirements apply to all uniformed personnel, as well as civilian and contractor personnel,” says the Secretary of Defense.

“I will not hesitate to act before or recommend a different course from the president if I feel the need to do so. To defend this nation, we need a healthy and prepared force,” said Austin, who recommends receiving the vaccine before the order arrives from the president or FDA.

President Biden has been quick to react to the Pentagon’s announcement and has shown his “strong support” for Austin’s decision. “These vaccines will save lives. Be safe. They are effective,” the head of the White House insisted to his compatriots, who still refuse to go through the process of vaccination.

“We are still on the fight, and every eligible American must take immediate steps to get vaccinated. I am proud that our military men and women continue to help lead the charge in the fight against this pandemic, as they do so often, by set an example of keeping your fellow Americans safe,” says Biden.

Vaccines in the United States Army are voluntary when under FDA emergency use authorization. However, the president has the power to remove that rule and make it a requirement for all staff. So far, 65 % of active military service has received the full vaccination schedule, while 74 % have received at least one dose.

Fuente: dpa

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