Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Match the information to your purpose

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention publishes public health information across many topics. Its website can be a starting point for learning about an infection, preparing a vaccine discussion or researching travel health. Choose the topic and audience that fit your question, since information for travelers, health professionals and the general public may serve different purposes.

Useful starting points

• Browse the health topics index when you know the name of a condition or infection.
• Explore vaccine information when preparing questions about your records and preventive care.
• Use traveler health resources for the destination and type of trip you are planning.

Check context before acting

Public health recommendations can change. Notice a page’s update date and whether it applies to your location, age group or travel plans. Bring relevant vaccine records and your questions to a qualified clinician. For a trip, make a note of destinations and departure dates so the discussion has the right context. Our preventive care guide helps you prepare a broader review of your health priorities.