The idea of enlisting in the military is both exciting and daunting, and many prospective recruits have questions about what they need to do in order to prepare. One of the most common questions relates to immunizations – can recruits get them before boot camp? The answer is, yes – although there are a few important things to consider.
Understanding the Types of Immunizations Needed
The military requires active duty and reserve personnel to receive certain immunizations, which are categorized as either core or non-core. Core immunizations are those that all members must receive, regardless of their duty station or conditions of deployment. Non-core immunizations are those that are recommended for certain duty stations or deployments, but are not required for all personnel.
The Core Immunizations
The core immunizations are:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Influenza
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Meningococcal conjugate (MCV4 or MPSV4)
- Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
These immunizations are typically provided at a military healthcare facility, but many recruits find it beneficial to get them before boot camp. Doing so allows them to focus on their training without worrying about getting immunized.
Getting Immunizations Before Boot Camp
Recruits who wish to get their immunizations before boot camp can do so at any healthcare facility, including their doctor’s office, a local clinic, or a hospital. It is important to note, however, that the military requires recruits to receive their immunizations from a healthcare provider who is authorized by the Department of Defense (DoD).
The DoD provides a list of authorized healthcare providers who can administer the required immunizations. In addition, many military healthcare facilities offer pre-enlistment physicals and immunizations to prospective recruits. Recruits should make sure to bring their DD Form 2807-1 (the military’s pre-enlistment physical exam form) to the appointment.
Non-Core Immunizations
Non-core immunizations are recommended for individuals who are deployed to certain regions or are assigned to certain duties. These may include:
- Anthrax
- Cholera
- Japanese encephalitis
- Plague
- Rabies
- Typhoid
- Yellow fever
The military recommends that recruits get these immunizations before they leave for their deployment. However, the decision to get these immunizations is ultimately up to the recruit and should be discussed with their healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What immunizations are required for military service?
The military requires active duty and reserve personnel to receive certain immunizations, which are categorized as either core or non-core. Core immunizations include: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Influenza, Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR), Meningococcal conjugate (MCV4 or MPSV4), Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap), and Varicella (chickenpox). Non-core immunizations are recommended for certain duty stations or deployments, but are not required for all personnel.
Can I get my immunizations before boot camp?
Yes, recruits can get their core immunizations before boot camp. They can do so at any healthcare facility, including their doctor’s office, a local clinic, or a hospital. However, the immunizations must be administered by a healthcare provider who is authorized by the Department of Defense.
What are non-core immunizations?
Non-core immunizations are those that are recommended for certain duty stations or deployments, but are not required for all personnel. These may include: Anthrax, Cholera, Japanese encephalitis, Plague, Rabies, Typhoid, and Yellow fever.
Is it mandatory to get non-core immunizations?
No, the decision to get non-core immunizations is ultimately up to the recruit and should be discussed with their healthcare provider.
Do I need to bring my DD Form 2807-1 to my pre-enlistment physical?
Yes, recruits should make sure to bring their DD Form 2807-1 (the military’s pre-enlistment physical exam form) to all pre-enlistment appointments, including immunization appointments.
Conclusion
Enlisting in the military is a big decision, and prospective recruits have many questions about what they need to do to prepare. One of the most common questions is whether they can get their immunizations before boot camp. The answer is, yes – although there are a few important things to consider. Recruits should make sure to get their immunizations from a DoD-authorized provider, and should discuss any non-core immunizations with their healthcare provider.