What federal entity is responsible for testing new vaccines?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the federal entity responsible for testing new vaccines in the United States. The FDA ensures the safety and efficacy of vaccines before they are approved for public use. This process involves rigorous evaluation through preclinical studies and multiple phases of clinical trials. The FDA reviews data on how the vaccine performs in trials, including monitoring for any adverse effects and determining the appropriate dosage and administration guidelines.

In contrast, the Environmental Protection Agency focuses primarily on environmental health and regulations rather than medical products. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) plays a critical role in public health and disease prevention, including the management and promotion of vaccination programs, but it does not conduct the testing of vaccines. The World Health Organization (WHO) works globally to coordinate health initiatives and responses but does not specifically test vaccines within a single country like the U.S. Instead, it may provide guidelines and support for vaccine testing processes worldwide.