Hegseth ends military flu mandate

The decision to drop the long-standing flu vaccine requirement marks a significant departure from centuries of U.S. military health policy.

Hegseth described the previous mandate as 'overreaching' and 'absurd,' arguing that American warriors should have the right to make their own medical choices.

While the vaccine will remain available to those who want it, the end of the mandate has sparked concern among public health experts about readiness and potential outbreaks within the ranks.

The move is seen as a fulfillment of a campaign promise to roll back what the administration calls 'era of betrayal' policies.