About CDC Text Messages

Recognizing the reach of text messaging, CDC has launched a Text Messaging program. You can choose to sign up to receive health tips and alerts delivered directly to your mobile phone. We'll also notify you about important new programs and ways that you can participate in surveys.

Although CDC will never charge you for text messages from this program, message and data charges from your wireless phone carrier may apply.

Here are some commonly-asked questions about the program:

How many messages will I receive?

We'll send you 2-3 messages a week with helpful tips to keep you well.

What kinds of messages will I receive?

We try to send messages based on your needs. To do this, we ask you to provide us with a little information about yourself when you sign up, including:

• Your gender
• Your age
• Your role (very general)
• Your zip code

This information helps us to send messages that are tailored to you. For instance, if there's an emergency in your area, we can send an alert to subscribers in your zip code. If we know your gender, we can send you messages about women's health or about men's health, etc. We use this information to relevant send messages about staying healthy.

What if I don’t want to provide my personal information?

Providing personal information is strictly voluntary and declining to do so does not affect your participation in the program.

Is there a cost?

Although CDC does not charge to participate in this program, standard text messaging rates from your wireless carrier may apply.

Which Wireless Carriers Participate?

Participating carriers include the major companies such as AT&T, T Mobile, Verizon Wireless, U.S. Cellular, Sprint, and Nextel.

How do I opt out?

Although we'd hate to lose you, you can opt out at any time by sending a reply with the word STOP in the body of the message.