Infographic: What Goes Into a Vaccine? Formaldehyde Spotlight

Today's vaccines use only the ingredients needed so they work and are safe.

Spotlight on Formaldehyde: pronounced fr-mal-duh-hide

Why is Formaldehyde Used?

Formaldehyde is used to kill the viruses and bacteria used to make vaccines, so that they can’t make people sick.

Is it safe to use?

The amount of formaldehyde used in vaccines is small and “watered down.” Your body makes more formaldehyde naturally than there is in a vaccine.

Safety Checks

Before they are approved for use in the United States, vaccines are tested to make sure they work, and are safe. After approval, the CDC and the FDA keep tracking the vaccine’s safety.

Learn more at: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/additives.htm

This resource is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a Cooperative Agreement. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Download the Infographic

This iREACH infographic provides information on ingredients that are used in vaccines, specifically highlighting formaldehyde.

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