In March 1964, the Immunization Practices Advisory Committee (ACIP) to the U.S. Public Health Service was formed to provide ongoing expert advice on vaccine policy following the introduction of new polio and measles vaccines.

Established to replace ad hoc committees, it provides recommendations to the CDC on vaccine use, safety, and effectiveness, to review the recommended childhood immunization schedule and note changes in manufacturers’ vaccine formulations, revise recommendations for the use of licensed vaccines, and make recommendations for newly licensed vaccines.

ACIP consists of 15 experts in immunization and related fields, selected by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, to provide advice and guidance on control of vaccine-preventable diseases.