For Consumers

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It’s a Good Time to Get Your Flu Vaccine

Influenza (flu) viruses typically spread in fall and winter, with activity peaking between December and February. Getting vaccinated in the fall can lower your chances of getting the flu.

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Consejos útiles para los consumidores de la FDA

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Consumer Updates

Science-based health and safety information you can trust

Minority Health and Health Equity

Easy-to-use and culturally-appropriate resources on minority health, health disparities, and more

Women's Health

Easy-to-read health materials in English and Spanish

Protect Yourself - Health Fraud Scams

Buying medicines online, health fraud, warnings and enforcement, safety alerts, and reporting problems to FDA

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What Does FDA Do?

The Food and Drug Administration regulates food, drugs, cosmetics, biologics, medical devices, and tobacco products. Researchers at the FDA even advance public health by helping to speed product innovations. More than 18,000 full time employees work across all 50 states and internationally. For over 100 years, the FDA has been working to carry out its mission of promoting and protecting public health, and that means your health.

Left photo of doctor talking to child patient with mother. Right photo of child washing hands wearing long sleeve shirt.

Safely Treating Molluscum, a Common Skin Condition

If you’re bothered by bumps on your skin, don’t try to diagnose yourself or treat your condition with products that haven’t been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Instead, visit a health care professional for a proper diagnosis and to make a treatment plan.

four photos showing box of dry goods food items, various pills and capsules in a medicine organizer, bottled water, and a young girl hugging her dog

Hurricane Season: Be Prepared

It's important to safeguard your food, water, medicine and pets before, during and after any severe weather event. When gale-force winds start blowing and torrential rains raise water levels, you need to be ready.

Four image collage depicting one person experiencing back pain, two people speaking with their doctors and a person receiving dental services.

What to Ask Your Doctor Before Taking Opioids

Every patient should ask questions when getting a new prescription. This is especially important when your doctor, dentist or other health care professional prescribes you an opioid pain medicine, such as hydrocodone, oxycodone or morphine.