Finding Credible Vaccine Information

Before considering vaccine information on the Internet, check that the information comes from a credible source and is updated on a regular basis.

CDC’s vaccines and immunization web content is researched, written and approved by subject matter experts, including physicians, researchers, epidemiologists, and analysts. Content is based on peer-reviewed science. CDC leadership makes the final decision on the words, images and links to best serve the information needs of the public as well as healthcare providers, public health professionals, partners, educators, and researchers. Science and public health data are frequently updated. Most pages are reviewed yearly.

CDC’s NCIRD is a member of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Vaccine Safety Net and follows web content and credibility criteria defined by the Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS).

CDC’s vaccines site is one of WHO’s 20 English language certified web sites.

As you surf for vaccine information, consider guidance from these sources:

• The American Academy of Pediatrics provides a list of items to consider when you’re online.
• The Immunization Action Coalition suggests questions you should ask.
• The National Network for Immunization Information (NNii) suggests questions to ask when evaluating information.
• The University of California San Francisco’s Evaluating Health Information page lists “Red Flags” every consumer needs to know.
• The Medical Library Association translates medical jargon (Medspeak) into language everyone can understand.

While it’s a useful tool for researching health-related issues, the Internet does not replace a discussion with a healthcare professional.