Why have UK Service personnel been offered immunisation against anthrax?
A. The threat from anthrax is real. A number of countries are known to have developed anthrax as a biological weapon. Aware of its potential, terrorist groups could also seek an anthrax capability. Our forces, from the front line to the home bases, could be at risk. Immunisation against anthrax is a safe and effective protective measure. It takes time to become effective, so it is sensible to offer it to personnel in advance. We have previously offered immunisation against anthrax to personnel deploying on operations to the Gulf and in specialist NBC units. We are now expanding the offer to all UK Service personnel including reserves and essential civilians who could deploy on operations overseas, as a routine immunisation.
