A flu epidemic has broken out at Lackland Air Force Base near San Antonio, Texas. Approximately 160 recruits have fallen ill. This outbreak occurred shortly after US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth rescinded the mandatory flu vaccination policy for military personnel. The timing of the outbreak has raised questions regarding the potential impact of the policy change on force readiness. Base officials are currently monitoring the situation and implementing measures to contain the spread of the virus. No details regarding the severity of the illness among the recruits have been released. The lifting of the mandate aimed to align with evolving public health guidance and respect individual choice, according to the Defense Department.