About ACIP

ACIP Flyer

This 2 page ACIP flyer [2 pages] answers questions such as what does the ACIP consider in the vaccine recommendation process, including recommended ages for administration of various vaccines to children.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) comprises medical and public health experts who develop recommendations on the use of vaccines in the civilian population of the United States. The recommendations stand as public health guidance for safe use of vaccines and related biological products.

ACIP was established under Section 222 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. § 2l7a) and is governed by its charter .

About ACIP Members

The ACIP includes 15 voting members responsible for making vaccine recommendations. The Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) selects these members following an application and nomination process. Fourteen of the members have expertise in vaccinology, immunology, pediatrics, internal medicine, nursing, family medicine, virology, public health, infectious diseases, and/or preventive medicine; one member is a consumer representative who provides perspectives on the social and community aspects of vaccination.

In addition to the 15 voting members, ACIP includes 8 ex officio members who represent other federal agencies with responsibility for immunization programs in the United States, and 30 non-voting representatives of liaison organizations that bring related immunization expertise.

Members and representatives serve on the Committee voluntarily.

About ACIP Meetings

The Committee meets three times annually at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. Meetings are open to the public and available online via webcast. During the meetings, members and CDC staff present findings and discuss vaccine research and scientific data related to vaccine effectiveness and safety, clinical trial results, and manufacturer’s labeling or package insert information. Outbreaks of vaccine-preventable disease or changes in vaccine supply, such as vaccine shortages, also are reviewed during meetings.

In addition to attending ACIP meetings, members participate in work groups. These work groups meet throughout the year via teleconference to review data on vaccine safety, efficacy, and effectiveness for presentation at ACIP meetings.

The calendar and proposed agendas, as well as past meeting minutes, slide presentations, and live meeting links, are posted under ACIP Meetings.

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