Just started looking into the military path after graduation, but I’m a bit worried about the medical requirements. Specifically, are there any mandatory vaccines to enlisting?
Yes, indeed there are mandatory vaccinations for military members, including those just enlisting. This requirement is primarily for the safety and health of the personnel and to avoid the spread of diseases within the close living and working quarters common in the military.
When you arrive for initial military training, you will likely receive several immunizations unless your immunization records are complete and readily available. The specific vaccines you receive may depend on a variety of factors, including your age, medical history, locations of deployment, and current immunization status.
Typically, vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), varicella, polio, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, influenza, and others are administered.
It would be beneficial to check with a local recruiting office for the most specific and up-to-date information related to your situation since requirements may vary based on your medical history and the specific branch of the military you are considering.
Lastly, do keep in mind, if you have specific medical or religious reasons that prevent you from getting vaccinations, you may be able to receive an exemption, although these are generally rare.
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