Who / What
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) is a committee within the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It gives advice and guidance on the effective control of vaccine-preventable diseases in the U.S. civilian population, issuing written recommendations and schedules for routine vaccine administration.
Background & History
ACIP was established as part of the CDC to develop evidence‑based guidance for immunization. Over the years it has crafted detailed vaccine schedules for both pediatric and adult populations, addressing appropriate timing, dosage, and contraindications. The committee has become a key federal resource for vaccine policy, with its statements published by the CDC.
Why Notable
ACIP’s recommendations are the official federal guidance for using vaccines and immune globulins in the United States, shaping national immunization practices. Its work directly influences public health outcomes by ensuring that vaccination schedules are safe, effective, and up to date. The committee’s guidance helps protect individuals and communities from vaccine‑preventable diseases.
In the News
On June 23 2025, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. referenced ACIP in a recent development, underscoring the committee’s ongoing role in shaping U.S. vaccination policy. This highlights ACIP’s continued relevance in contemporary public‑health discussions.