Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced on Tuesday that the Pentagon has ended its longstanding requirement for all U.S. service members to receive an annual flu vaccine. The policy change takes effect immediately and applies to active duty, Guard, and Reserve personnel.

In a video posted to X, Hegseth described the move as restoring "medical autonomy" and "freedom to express religious convictions" to troops. "Our new policy is simple," he said. "If you, an American warrior entrusted to defend this nation, believe that the flu vaccine is in your best interest, then you’re free to take it. You should. But we will not force you. Because your body, your faith are not negotiable."

Hegseth criticized the prior mandate as an "absurd, overreaching" policy that weakened warfighting capabilities by forcing service members to choose between conscience and country. The announcement updates DoD Instruction 6205.02 on the Immunization Program.

The flu vaccine had been mandatory for decades for all uniformed personnel unless medically or administratively exempt. Last year, the Pentagon introduced exemptions for reservists not on active duty for 30 consecutive days or more, prioritizing deploying forces and recruits. Influenza vaccination remained policy for Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve in the 2025-2026 season guidance.

This follows the 2023 rescission of the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, after which more than 8,000 service members were separated for noncompliance. The Trump administration has focused on reinstating such troops, extending deadlines for returns until April 2027.

Pentagon officials encourage vaccination where it supports readiness, but no penalties apply for refusal. The change aligns with efforts to conserve resources for mission-critical needs.