Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) in Iraq are names of military campaigns. OEF began on October 7, 2001 and continues. OIF began on March 20, 2003 and continued until September 1, 2010, when combat operations ceased and Operation New Dawn began, reflecting a reduced U.S. role in Iraq. The Iraq War officially ended on December 15, 2011.
OEF/OIF/OND combat Veterans may have been exposed to a wide variety of environmental hazards during their service in Afghanistan or Iraq. These hazardous exposures may cause long-term health problems. Exposures include:
- Burn pits
- Infectious diseases
- Depleted uranium
- Toxic embedded fragments
- Rabies
- Mefloquine (Lariam®)
- Cold and heat injuries
- Chromium at Qarmat Ali Water Treatment Facility
- Sulfur dioxide at Mishraq Sulfur Fire
- Sand, dust, and particulates
- Nerve agents
- Traumatic brain injury
Health concerns?
If you are concerned about exposures during military service, talk to your health care provider or local VA Environmental Health Coordinator. Veterans not enrolled in the VA health care system, find out if you qualify for VA health care.
VA benefits
Veterans may be eligible for VA disability compensation benefits and health care benefits for health problems associated with exposures during military service.
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Veterans Health
Related Links
Contact VA
Environmental Health
Coordinators Directory
- Health Care
1-877-222-8387 - Benefits
1-800-827-1000 - TDD (hearing impaired)
1-800-829-4833
