Vaccines by Disease

Vaccines do a great job of keeping people from getting serious diseases. In the United States, the rates for most vaccine-preventable diseases are at record or near-record lows.

But these diseases still exist — even if they are rare in the United States, they may be common in countries that are just a plane ride away. As long as these diseases are around, people will continue to get sick.

That’s why it’s so important for you and your family to get vaccinated.

In this section, you’ll find answers to common questions about vaccines and the diseases they protect you from, including:

  • What is the vaccine?
  • What disease does it protect me from?
  • Why is the vaccine important?
  • Who needs the vaccine?
  • Who should not get the vaccine?
  • What are the side effects?

Get Immunized

Getting immunized is easy. Vaccines are available at the doctor’s office or pharmacies — and are usually covered by insurance.

Find out how to get protected.

Want to learn about the journey of your child’s vaccine?

See how vaccines are developed, approved, and monitored.

Content created by Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy (OIDP)
Content last reviewed