Anthrax Vaccine Military

The United States military started administering the anthrax vaccine during the Gulf War. The anthrax vaccine, which was a mandatory immunization until 2004 for military service people, has been linked to dozens of adverse reactions and concerning long-term side effects.

Many military veterans are now dealing with disabling conditions that may be connected to the anthrax vaccine.

The immediate mild or moderate adverse reactions can include:

  • Reaction at the shot site, including itching, bruising, tenderness, swelling, and redness

  • Temporary mobility limitations in the arm where the shot was given

  • Muscle aches

  • Headaches

  • Fatigue

More serious adverse reactions can include:

  • Dizziness

  • Respiratory problems

  • Swelling of the lips and throat

  • Rapid heartbeat

Some of these side effects may last for a short time, but many military veterans are now also experiencing disabling long-term health problems that may be linked to the anthrax vaccine.

Anthrax Vaccine Long Term Side Effects

While the United States military has not thoroughly researched the long-term side effects of the anthrax vaccine on military veterans, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that the vaccine contributed to the collective chronic illnesses and disabilities known as Gulf War Syndrome. According to a recent article in Stars and Stripes, the Department of Veterans Affairs denies over 80% of benefits claims filed by military veterans for illnesses and conditions related to the Gulf War.

The FDA has confirmed that Squalene – an oil-based adjuvant that hyperactivates the immune system – was used in some of the batches of the anthrax vaccine given to military members in the early 1990s. Squalene is very dangerous to use as an adjuvant because it can cause the body’s immune system to self-destruct.

Over 2 million doses of the anthrax vaccine were given to United States military members from 1990 to 2001. Thousands of Gulf War military veterans may have received an anthrax vaccine with the Squalene adjuvant. Extensive research done on other squalene-containing vaccines used around the world links Squalene to long-term severe neurological and immune system dysfunction.

Long-term side effects for military veterans who received the anthrax vaccine with the Squalene adjuvant may include:

  • Autoimmune arthritis
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Lupus
  • Infertility
  • Allergic neuritis (nerve inflammation that can lead to paralysis)
  • Allergic uveitis (eye muscle inflammation that can compress the optic nerve and lead to blindness)
  • Congenital disabilities in children
  • Neurological damage
  • Slurred speech
  • Impaired motor skills
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Loss of balance
  • Lack of coordination

VA Appeals Attorneys: Anthrax Vaccine Military Disability

The VA is currently only reviewing cases regarding doses of anthrax administered during the 1990-2001 period. A doctor’s statement must link your vaccination to the symptoms you are experiencing before you can submit a claim for compensation. If you have submitted a VA disability claim and been denied, we may be able to help. We can only assist veterans in the appeals process. Our team can fight for your disability benefits if you have been issued a denial or poorly rated decision within the last twelve months.

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