Flu cases at Texas base hit 275 as services again require recruits to get shots

The number of flu cases at Lackland Air Force Base has surged to 275, highlighting the impact of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s recent decision to lift the influenza vaccine mandate for service members. As a result, the base has reinstated the vaccine requirement for recruits to curb the spread. This situation underscores the importance of vaccination in preventing outbreaks, especially in densely populated military environments where the flu can spread rapidly. The renewed emphasis on shots reflects a strategic move to protect the health and readiness of military personnel.