Story perspectives

159 Flu Cases, One Death at Lackland Post-Vaccine Opt-Out

6/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Air Force reported a flu outbreak at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, with at least 159 cases.
Three trainees—two hospitalized and Keon McDaniel, who died—fell ill during basic training.
The outbreak followed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s April 21, 2026 decision to make flu vaccination optional, which cut uptake to 40 percent.
The Air Force secured an exception, requiring Lackland recruits to be vaccinated and treating symptomatic trainees with Tamiflu.

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Story summary

The Air Force reported a flu outbreak at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, with at least 159 cases.
Three trainees—two hospitalized and Keon McDaniel, who died—fell ill during basic training.
The outbreak followed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s April 21, 2026 decision to make flu vaccination optional, which cut uptake to 40 percent.
The Air Force secured an exception, requiring Lackland recruits to be vaccinated and treating symptomatic trainees with Tamiflu.