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"Protecting the health and informed consent rights of children since 1982."

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NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release Contact: Lawrence Halloran

June 28, 2002 202-225-2548

Statement of Rep. Christopher Shays

On DOD Anthrax Vaccine Program

That the Department of Defense will not return to a force-wide, mandatory anthrax vaccination program is welcome news. The scaled-back approach announced today reflects a clear-eyed view of the threat and a responsible application of the limited medical countermeasures available.

This more balanced policy reflects the harsh new realities of the post-9/11

world. Last year's mail-borne anthrax attacks proved the threat to

civilians as well as military personnel must be addressed. A substantial portion of the anthrax vaccine now being produced will be stockpiled for use in the event of further attacks here at home.

Two years ago, our Subcommittee recommended DOD limit use of the current vaccine and focus instead on the development of a less reactogenic anthrax

vaccine that does not require six shots over 18 months. But research and

testing for a modern anthrax vaccine still appear to lack focus and urgency. The new Secretary of Homeland Security should make this a top priority.

Finally, the decision to scale back the program comes as belated vindication of those forced to leave the military for refusing to participate in a program they knew then to be overwrought and unsustainable. Justice demands those men and women be given the opportunity to appeal demotions and dis missals based on resistance to a program that no longer exists.

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