Military medicine
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Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the U. S. military and accounts for more healthcare visits than the next two most common STIs combined. Human papillomavirus is preventable with a safe, effective, prophylactic vaccine that has been available since 2006, yet vaccination rates remain low. ⋯ With more than half of the 1.3 million service members in the catch-up vaccination age range of less than 26 years of age, we are poised to have a profound impact through mandatory active duty service member vaccination. Although multiple strategies for improving vaccination rates have been proposed, mandatory vaccination would be in line with current joint service policy that requires all ACIP-recommended vaccines. It is time to update the joint service guidelines and add HPV vaccine to the list of mandatory vaccines.
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Frostbite, or the freezing of the tissues by exposure to conditions below the freezing point of water, is an unsettling and potentially dangerous condition that one can develop while living and working in cold environments below 0°C without proper protections. Civilians and military personnel operating in prolonged field conditions in temperatures below freezing rely on advanced fabrics and multiple layers to maintain body heat around the extremities to prevent frostbite. Here, we detail the situation and findings of frostbite in 2 American service members who were exposed to temperatures of approximately -19.5°C for 5 hours while hiking on frozen sea ice. ⋯ The personnel presented with the classic signs and symptoms of second-degree frostbite with blistering and tingling but went on to have no lasting serious sequelae. We find these cases important as it documents the inadequacy of the footgear utilized, despite being operated in weather conditions within the range of the manufacturer's safety recommendations. Sea ice and other very cold, conducting surfaces may require other gear considerations when operating in this unique terrain type.