CDC's Role in Vaccination

Many people confuse the FDA (which approves vaccines) with the CDC (which recommends how vaccines should be used). The CDC does not approve vaccines — instead, it develops recommendations for who should receive vaccines, when, and under what circumstances.

FDA vs. CDC: Distinct Roles

What CDC Does

• ACIP support: Provides staff and resources for Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices
• Immunization schedules: Develops child, adolescent, and adult schedules
• Recommendations: Determines which groups should receive which vaccines
• Vaccine information statements: Creates required patient information
• Surveillance: Monitors vaccine safety through VAERS and VSD
• Coverage tracking: Measures vaccination rates nationally
• Education: Provides information for healthcare providers and the public

The Immunization Schedule

The CDC maintains the official US immunization schedules:

• Child schedule: Birth through 6 years
• Adolescent schedule: 7-18 years
• Adult schedule: 19 years and older
• Catch-up schedule: For those who fall behind

National Immunization Program

The CDC's National Immunization Program:

• Provides vaccines for children through Vaccines for Children (VFC) program
• Supports state and local immunization programs
• Maintains the Vaccine Information Clearinghouse
• Coordinates with WHO on global immunization efforts

Sources & Citations

• CDC: Vaccines and Immunizations
• CDC: Immunization Schedules