Observed noncompliance with implementation of vector-borne disease preventive measures among deployed forces

Failure by individual service members and units to implement preventive measures to mitigate environmental health threats have always resulted in reduced efficiency of the Warfighter, with the attendant reduction in combat capability. This article describes observations at 2 sites in northern Iraq from July 2007 to September 2009 of deficiencies in the use of preventive and protective measures to reduce incidences of vector-borne diseases. Observations included individual service member s indifference or negative attitude toward use of personal protective equipment and unit leaders failure to provide required resources and enforce use of personal protective measures. Implications of these actions and recommendation for enhancing compliance are discussed.