HIV Testing & Prevention | CDC
Navigating Redirects at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Visitors to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website may encounter a “Page Not Found” message, accompanied by a notice that the page has moved. This can be a temporary disruption, but it signals ongoing updates to the CDC’s vast online resources. The CDC utilizes several automated redirection systems to guide users to the correct, current information, and provides guidance on updating saved bookmarks.
The CDC’s website is a critical source of public health information, and frequent updates are necessary to reflect the latest scientific understanding and evolving public health recommendations. These updates, while essential, can sometimes lead to broken links or moved pages. The CDC acknowledges this and has implemented systems to minimize disruption.
Understanding the Redirection Notices
The specific message a user encounters depends on how the CDC has handled the page move. There are three primary scenarios:
- Automatic Redirection: In many cases, the CDC automatically redirects users to the modern location within 10 seconds. A message informs the user of this impending redirection and provides a link for immediate access.
- Multiple Matches: If the original page has been fragmented into several new pages, the CDC presents a notice indicating multiple potential destinations. Users are advised to review the options to find the most relevant information.
- Archived Pages: Some older pages are moved to the CDC’s archive.cdc.gov. This archive preserves historical information that may no longer be actively maintained but remains valuable for research or historical context. Like the other scenarios, an automatic redirect is offered, along with a direct link.
Regardless of the scenario, the CDC consistently advises users to update any bookmarks they may have saved for the original page. This ensures future access to the correct information.
Why Pages Move and the Importance of Bookmarks
Webpages are moved for a variety of reasons. Content may be reorganized to improve navigation, updated to reflect new research findings, or consolidated to streamline information. The CDC, like other large organizations, regularly reviews and revises its website to ensure accuracy and usability.
Bookmarks are a convenient way to save frequently visited webpages. While, when a website undergoes changes, bookmarks pointing to old URLs become broken links. Regularly updating bookmarks is crucial for maintaining access to key information. This is particularly important for health-related resources, where timely and accurate information can be critical.
Beyond the CDC: Managing Bookmarks Across Browsers
The need to update bookmarks isn’t unique to the CDC website. All websites undergo changes over time. Fortunately, modern web browsers offer tools to manage bookmarks effectively. According to Google Chrome Help, users can create, find, and edit bookmarks, including organizing them into folders for easier management. Similarly, WikiHow provides instructions for bookmarking websites across various browsers, highlighting the importance of the star symbol or “add to favorites” button. Microsoft Edge also offers robust bookmarking features, as detailed in Microsoft’s support documentation.
The CDC’s Commitment to Accessible Information
The CDC’s efforts to redirect users and provide clear instructions demonstrate a commitment to ensuring that its vital public health information remains accessible. While encountering a “Page Not Found” message can be frustrating, the automated redirection systems and clear guidance on bookmark updates are designed to minimize disruption and guide users to the correct resources.
The CDC website is a dynamic resource, constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of public health. Staying informed about website updates and maintaining current bookmarks are essential steps for accessing the most accurate and up-to-date information.
What to Do If Redirection Fails
While the CDC’s redirection systems are generally reliable, occasional issues can occur. If a user is not automatically redirected or cannot find the correct page through the provided links, several steps can be taken:
- Use the CDC’s Search Function: The CDC website has a robust search function that can help locate information even if the original URL is no longer valid.
- Navigate from the CDC Homepage: Starting from the CDC homepage (https://www.cdc.gov/) and navigating through the site’s menu structure can often lead to the desired information.
- Contact the CDC: For persistent issues, users can contact the CDC directly through its contact form or by phone.
The CDC’s dedication to providing accessible and accurate public health information is paramount. By understanding the reasons for page moves and utilizing the available tools and resources, users can ensure they have access to the information they need to protect their health and well-being.