There’s a delicate balance between a personal right to refuse medical treatment, and the duty to be a responsible citizen. For example, should I stay at home because I have influenza, or do I have a right to come to work? The Daily Maverick reported August 9, 2021 the Pentagon will enforce vaccines on military personnel by September 15. Therefore could this become the test case that settles the COVID-19 vaccine debate legally?
Austin Says the Pentagon Will Enforce Vaccines on U.S. Military
Lloyd Austin is U.S. Secretary of Defense. He retired as a United States Army four-star general whose final portfolio was head of Central Command. So we could say he understands U.S. military culture and managing large projects.
‘I want you to know I will seek the president’s approval’, Austin announced in a memo to department employees. ‘To make the COVID vaccines mandatory. And no later than mid-September, or immediately upon approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration whichever comes first.’
He cited the rise in infection rates, and the impact ‘those rates might have on our readiness,’ according to Daily Maverick. So it seems from his perspective, the Pentagon will enforce COVID vaccines on military to protect U.S. strategic interests. This therefore puts social duty ahead of citizen’s rights to refuse medical treatment.
This Announcement Aligns With General U.S. Military Policy
Active-duty, and selected reserve personnel must already receive seasonal influenza immunizations. As well as at least a dozen other inoculations against diseases such as measles and tetanus. However, exemptions may be considered in terms of the guidelines below. But these do not appear to include personal preferences.
Chair of Joint Chiefs Mark Miley agreed. ‘COVID-19 is a threat to force protection and readiness,’ he said. ‘The Joint Force medical professionals recommended this as a necessary step to sustain our readiness. And to protect our force, our co-workers, our families, and our communities.’
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