Role of U.S. Government Agencies
in Vaccine Creation and Safety
CDC
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention saves lives and protects people from health threats. CDC conducts research and provides health information that protects the U.S. against health threats and responds when these arise.
FDA
The Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) protects the public through examination and safety policies on consumed products including eggs, meats, medicine and some vitamins. Through oversight and regulation, the FDA ensures vaccine quality, safety, and effectiveness.
NIH
The National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) purpose is to encourage new study, science and understanding that enhances life, increases health, and decreases illness and disability. The NIH supports, facilitates, and encourages research and science to create treatments and vaccines.
HHS
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the U.S. government’s principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services. HHS provides diverse programs and initiatives that serve and protect. Other government health agencies operate under its wings including CDC, FDA, NIH, and HRSA.
DOD
The Department of Defense (DOD) provides for national security. During the COVID-19 outbreak, the DOD provide its skills and services in managing and monitoring the supply and distribution of vaccines and other items necessary to combat the pandemic in the U.S. Should another health crisis arise the DOD may be involved again, but the do not participate in the process otherwise.
WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) is not a U.S. government agency, but often referenced as health experts in discussions about public health. WHO name explains its role. WHO is the leading health organization in the world. They coordinate across countries, facilitate broad health initiatives and respond to health emergencies. Their goal is to ensure that “a billion more people have universal health coverage, to protect a billion more people from health emergencies, and provide a further billion people with better health and well-being.”
Please use the map below to identify your state’s health office.
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