The Defense Department has requested that all military, civilian and contractor personnel report any unexplained health issues possibly linked to the mysterious sonic weapons attack, a message signed by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated on Wednesday.
The message is part of a broader effort to increase reporting globally and to help counterintelligence investigators collect data about the “Havana Syndrome” illnesses that have impacted at least 200 Americans.
The Pentagon’s message, as well as additional documents provided to military officials, outlines the signs of an attack that could result in symptoms linked to the mystery illness, including heat, pressure and noise. The department said Havana syndrome symptoms typically include nausea, headaches, pain and vertigo.
The memo was sent to 2.9 million service members and Defense Department civilians, according to the New York Times.
“Timely reporting is essential and starts with you knowing what to do if you experience [an Anomalous Health Incident (AHi)]. If you believe you have experienced a sensory event with the new onset of such symptoms, immediately remove yourself, coworkers, and/or family members from the area and report the incident and symptoms to your chain of command, security officer, and medical provider,” the memo stated. “If you have reason to believe a co-worker or co-workers have likewise experienced AHi, please encourage those individuals to do the same.”
“Each and every AHi report will be investigated in the same manner as other health and readiness concerns. We want all DoD personnel to be armed with the information they need. Every Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, Guardian, civilian employee, and covered contractor personnel has a responsibility to report suspected incidents through all appropriate channels,” Austin’s message continued.
The department also recommended those outside the Pentagon’s oversight, like dependents, report suspected incidents.
“Your help and vigilance will help our efforts to fully understand the nature of these incidents. For our part, rest assured we will continue to provide updates on AHi through internal DoD information channels. Thank you for your support,” the message concluded.
In August, at least two United States officials in Germany received medical attention for symptoms of a suspected sonic weapons attack. The cases included symptoms like nausea, severe headaches, ear pain, fatigue, insomnia and sluggishness. They are the first to appear in a NATO country that hosts American troops and nuclear weapons.
United States diplomats said additional incidents have been reported by American officials in other European countries, including intelligence officers and diplomats working on issues connected with Russia, such as cybersecurity, political interference and gas exports.
