The Public Health Foundation (PHF) recently released the 13th edition of “Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases.” Many of you probably more commonly know this book as “The Pink Book.”

The updated version can be viewed, downloaded or printed in its entirety from http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/index.html. Alternatively, copies can be ordered from the PHF Learning Resource Center.

In addition to updated information, the 13th edition includes summary text in the side columns, as previous editions have had, and in addition, a helpful series of general rules are pulled out within the text during the first few chapters of general information.

General immunization practices and specific chapters on each vaccine-preventable disease compose the body of the book. However, the appendices provide an important value-added component. Appendices include:

  • Schedules and recommendations – Tables include schedules, minimum ages, summary recommendations and guide to contraindications
  • Vaccines – Tables include U.S. vaccines, discontinued U.S. vaccines, vaccine excipients, and latex and thimerosal tables.
  • Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) – Includes information related to proper use of VIS.
  • Vaccine safety – Discusses VAERS, VICP and includes the vaccine injury table.
  • Data and statistics – Reported cases and deaths, impact of vaccines and vaccine coverage.
  • Immunization resources – Includes a variety of CDC and other resources.

If you administer vaccines and have never seen “The Pink Book” or referred to its contents, we definitely suggest taking some time to check it out. It will be time well-spent.

Materials in this section are updated as new information and vaccines become available. The Vaccine Education Center staff regularly reviews materials for accuracy.

You should not consider the information in this site to be specific, professional medical advice for your personal health or for your family's personal health. You should not use it to replace any relationship with a physician or other qualified healthcare professional. For medical concerns, including decisions about vaccinations, medications and other treatments, you should always consult your physician or, in serious cases, seek immediate assistance from emergency personnel.