Some Veterans have raised concerns about certain vaccines and medications they received while serving in the military. Find out more about these vaccines and medications.
Photo: U.S. Department of Defense
- VA continues to evaluate the health effects of Gulf War vaccinations, including anthrax and botulinum toxoid.
- Pyridostigmine bromide (PB) is a pre-treatment drug taken by Service members during the 1990-1991 Gulf War to protect against nerve agent attacks.
- Mefloquine (brand name: Lariam®) is a drug given to military personnel to protect against malaria, an infectious disease transmitted by mosquitoes.
- Anthrax vaccine is a series of six shots to protect against the infectious, bacterial disease anthrax, which has been used in biological warfare. Learn more from the Department of Defense.
- Smallpox vaccine prevents smallpox, a deadly, viral disease. Because there is concern that smallpox could be used as a biological weapon, members of the military are vaccinated against it. Learn more from Medline Plus.
If you are concerned about long-term side effects from vaccinations or medications during your military service, talk to your health care provider or local VA Environmental Health Coordinator.
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