Page Moved | CDC Redirect Information

Navigating a broken link online can be frustrating, especially when seeking health information. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, a crucial resource for public health guidance, occasionally redirects users encountering outdated links. If you’ve landed on a “Page Not Found” message while visiting CDC.gov, here’s what’s happening and how to quickly access the information you require.

Automatic Redirection and Bookmark Updates

The CDC employs several automated systems to handle moved or archived content. Depending on the specific page you were trying to reach, you may encounter one of three scenarios. In many cases, you’ll be automatically redirected to the new location within 10 seconds. A message will appear stating, “You will be automatically redirected to the new location in 10 seconds or you can click here to go to link.” This represents designed to minimize disruption, particularly for those accessing information through older bookmarks.

However, the CDC as well explicitly advises users to update any saved bookmarks. Webpages are frequently reorganized and updated, and old bookmarks can quickly become obsolete. Regularly checking for updated links ensures you’re accessing the most current and accurate information.

When Multiple Pages Match Your Request

Sometimes, a search for a specific page may yield multiple potential matches. In these instances, the CDC displays a message indicating, “Please see:” followed by a list of possible destinations. This can occur when content has been restructured or consolidated. Again, the recommendation is to update any bookmarks to reflect the new organization of the site.

Accessing Archived Content

The CDC maintains an archive of older content at archive.cdc.gov. If the page you were seeking has been moved to the archive, you’ll be informed with a message stating, “The page you were looking for has moved to archive.cdc.gov.” Similar to other redirects, an automatic redirection will occur within 10 seconds, or you can click a provided link. Archived content represents historical information and may not reflect the CDC’s current recommendations.

Understanding Website Redirection: A Technical Overview

The process of redirecting users from old URLs to new ones is a common practice in web management. As websites evolve, content is often reorganized, renamed, or even removed. Redirects ensure that users don’t encounter dead links and can still access relevant information. There are several methods for implementing redirects, including server-side redirects and client-side redirects using JavaScript.

According to a discussion on Stack Overflow, client-side JavaScript can be used to translate HTML bookmarks (anchor tags) into query string parameters, allowing for redirection based on the bookmark’s identifier. This Stack Overflow post details a method for achieving this in ASP.NET MVC2, demonstrating the technical complexity involved in maintaining seamless transitions for users with older links.

Redirects and Service Portal Transitions

The need for careful redirection is particularly acute during transitions between different web platforms or “Service Portals.” ServiceNow, for example, provides tools for redirecting pages when migrating between portals. A ServiceNow developer article explains how to redirect pages using JavaScript Includes, ensuring a smooth user experience during platform updates. This highlights the importance of proactive planning and implementation of redirects to minimize disruption.

Managing Redirects in Content Management Systems

Content Management Systems (CMS) like Adobe Experience Manager (AEM) also offer features for managing redirects. As described by Virginia Tech’s Ensemble documentation, redirects can be created for individual items, such as old HTML files, to point users to the new location. This is particularly useful when migrating content from older systems, ensuring that existing bookmarks continue to function correctly. The process involves editing the item’s properties and specifying the destination folder for the redirect.

What to Do If the Redirect Doesn’t Perform

While the CDC’s automated systems are generally reliable, occasional issues can occur. If you’re not automatically redirected or the provided link doesn’t work, the best course of action is to use the CDC’s search function. The search bar, typically located in the upper right corner of the website, allows you to quickly discover information by keyword.

You can also navigate to the CDC’s homepage and browse through the various sections to locate the information you need. The CDC website is organized by topic, such as diseases, health topics, and emergency preparedness, making it easier to find relevant content.

The Importance of Staying Informed

The CDC’s website is a dynamic resource, constantly updated with the latest public health information. Regularly checking for updated links and bookmarks ensures you’re accessing the most accurate and reliable guidance. By understanding the CDC’s redirection processes and utilizing available search tools, you can navigate the website effectively and stay informed about important health matters.