The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has determined ISIS likely used chemical weapons in August during a battle in a Syrian town. A confidential report from the organization shows it concluded “with the utmost confidence that at least two people were exposed to sulfur mustard,” reported Reuters. The incident happened on Aug. 21 in the town of Marea. The weapons likely resulted in the death of an infant. Air Force Col. Patrick Ryder, a spokesman for US Central Command, said Nov. 6 the report shows “another reason why this group needs to be stopped.” While CENTCOM didn’t investigate the report, ISIS has publicly declared its intent to use chemical weapons, Ryder said.
Airmen and Guardians in the Active and Reserve component, as well as civilian employees, in “mission critical and high-risk populations” are now required to receive influenza vaccinations annually to “preserve force readiness,” according to a recent Department of the Air Force memo.