Publications:
Vaccine Information Statements (VIS): Myth Exposed!
MYTH:
A newly-licensed vaccine cannot be administered until a VIS is available for it.
FACT:
The law does not require that a vaccine be withheld if a VIS for it does not yet exist.
When a new vaccine is licensed, CDC creates a VIS for it as quickly as possible. But development of a VIS can be delayed for a number of reasons.
Until a VIS is available for a particular vaccine, a provider may use the manufacturer's package insert, written FAQs, or any other document – or produce their own information sheet – to inform patients about the benefits and risks of that vaccine.
Once a VIS is available it should be used; but providers should not delay use of a vaccine because of the absence of a VIS.
This page last modified on February 21, 2006
Content last reviewed on February 21, 2006
Content Source: National Center for Immunizations and Respiratory Diseases
Content last reviewed on February 21, 2006
Content Source: National Center for Immunizations and Respiratory Diseases