# Accessibility bug reports — nih.gov, week 2026-W29

35 issue type(s) from 3333 pages scanned. Generated 2026-07-24 by [vital-scans](https://github.com/mgifford/vital-core), following [accessibility bug-reporting best practices](https://mgifford.github.io/ACCESSIBILITY.md/examples/ACCESSIBILITY_BUG_REPORTING_BEST_PRACTICES.html).

> Automated checks find roughly a third of accessibility barriers. Fields marked "requires manual testing" cannot be observed by an automated scan and need a human with assistive technology.

---
## Images must have alternative text (WCAG 1.1.1)

**Bug ID:** `VS-5ab002fd`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-9074b4dd`  
**URL:** https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2024-nih-research-highlights-human-health-advances  
**XPath / selector:** `.thumbnail-teaser.thumbnail-teaser--1col:nth-child(2) > .link--no-tag.thumbnail-teaser__link[typeof="schema:WebPage"] > .thumbnail-teaser__img > .image-style-thumbnail-large[loading="lazy"][width="200"]`  
**WCAG SC:** 1.1.1 — Non-text Content (Level A)  
**Rule:** axe-core — `image-alt` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/image-alt?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Critical  
**Frequency:** 111 instances; 50 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### HTML snippet
```html
<img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/thumbnail_large/public/2025-05/20240917-blood-test.jpg?itok=8VWvchu8" width="200" height="auto" class="image-style-thumbnail-large">
```

### Description
Images must have alternative text. Detected by axe-core rule image-alt on 50 of 3333 scanned pages (111 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2024-nih-research-highlights-human-health-advances.
2. Locate the element: .thumbnail-teaser.thumbnail-teaser--1col:nth-child(2) > .link--no-tag.thumbnail-teaser__link[typeof="schema:WebPage"] > .thumbnail-teaser__img > .image-style-thumbnail-large[loading="lazy"][width="200"]
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule image-alt against WCAG 1.1.1 Non-text Content.

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited vision (2.4%), Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability (11.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability** (11.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2024-nih-research-highlights-human-health-advances
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=0
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2024-nih-research-highlights-human-health-advances
- https://nih.gov/brain/events
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/research-in-context
- https://nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you/personal-stories
- https://nih.gov/research-training
- https://nih.gov/heal/news
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=7
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=3
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/research-in-context?page=0
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/health-information
- https://www.nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you/parents-children
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=1
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/research-in-context
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/directors-nih-institutes-centers
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/research-training/science-highlights
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/directors-nih-institutes-centers
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/research-training/nih-research-highlights
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/science-highlights
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=6
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/about-nih/impact-nih-research
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=8
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events

…and more — 50 pages total ([download CSV](csv/axe-core__image-alt.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Give every <img> a meaningful alt attribute. Use alt="" only for decorative images so screen readers skip them.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/image-alt?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2024-nih-research-highlights-human-health-advances
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=0
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2024-nih-research-highlights-human-health-advances

---

## Image has accessible name (WCAG 1.1.1)

**Bug ID:** `VS-0853d725`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-a24eaa8c`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=0  
**XPath / selector:** `<img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/thumbnail_large/public/2026-06/20260616-covid.jpg?itok=wK88ho3h" width="200" height="auto">`  
**WCAG SC:** 1.1.1 — Non-text Content (Level A)  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r2` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r2))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 49 instances; 21 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### Description
Image has accessible name. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r2 on 21 of 3333 scanned pages (49 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=0.
2. Locate the element: <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/thumbnail_large/public/2026-06/20260616-covid.jpg?itok=wK88ho3h" width="200" height="auto">
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r2 against WCAG 1.1.1 Non-text Content.

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited vision (2.4%), Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability (11.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability** (11.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=0
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/research-in-context
- https://nih.gov/research-training
- https://nih.gov/heal/news
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=3
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/research-in-context?page=0
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/research-training/science-highlights
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/science-highlights
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=8
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=4
- https://nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you/parents-children
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-news-publications
- https://www.nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you/personal-stories
- https://nih.gov/news-events
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters
- https://nih.gov/grants-funding
- https://nih.gov/research-training/science-highlights
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2025-nih-research-highlights-promising-medical-findings
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-news-publications
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Give every <img> an accessible name (alt text), or alt="" if purely decorative.

See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r2

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=0
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/research-in-context
- https://nih.gov/research-training

---

## <ul> and <ol> must only directly contain <li>, <script> or <template> elements (WCAG 1.3.1)

**Bug ID:** `VS-1f485843`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-a0bdbdf6`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/heal/award-policy/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-repository?page=14  
**XPath / selector:** `.usa-pagination__list`  
**WCAG SC:** 1.3.1 — Info and Relationships (Level A)  
**Rule:** axe-core — `list` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/list?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Serious  
**Frequency:** 104 instances; 104 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### HTML snippet
```html
<ul class="usa-pagination__list pager__items js-pager__items">
```

### Description
<ul> and <ol> must only directly contain <li>, <script> or <template> elements. Detected by axe-core rule list on 104 of 3333 scanned pages (104 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/heal/award-policy/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-repository?page=14.
2. Locate the element: .usa-pagination__list
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule list against WCAG 1.3.1 Info and Relationships.

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited vision (2.4%), Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability (11.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability** (11.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/heal/award-policy/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-repository?page=14
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=0
- https://nih.gov/press-room?page=184
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/nih-foia-library/cellpro-march-petition-documents
- https://www.nih.gov/heal/award-policy/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-repository?page=10
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=86
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=181
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=179
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=2
- https://nih.gov/press-room
- https://nih.gov/heal/award-policy/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-repository?page=0
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=7
- https://www.nih.gov/heal/award-policy/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-repository?page=7
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=2
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases
- https://nih.gov/press-room?page=186
- https://nih.gov/heal/award-policy/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-repository?page=2
- https://www.nih.gov/heal/award-policy/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-repository
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=3
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=0
- https://nih.gov/press-room?page=179
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=87
- https://www.nih.gov/press-room?page=1
- https://www.nih.gov/heal/heal-initiative-requirements/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-program/cdes-repository?page=14
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=178

…and more — 104 pages total ([download CSV](csv/axe-core__list.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Use <ul>/<ol> with only <li> children for lists; don't fake lists with <div>s.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/list?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/heal/award-policy/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-repository?page=14
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters?page=0
- https://nih.gov/press-room?page=184

---

## Element has required owned roles (WCAG 1.3.1)

**Bug ID:** `VS-5c6075de`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-3c632d31`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `<h3 class="promo-block__heading">`  
**WCAG SC:** 1.3.1 — Info and Relationships (Level A)  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r64` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r64))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 134 instances; 134 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (2 weeks)

### Description
Element has required owned roles. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r64 on 134 of 3333 scanned pages (134 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge.
2. Locate the element: <h3 class="promo-block__heading">
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r64 against WCAG 1.3.1 Info and Relationships.

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited vision (2.4%), Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability (11.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability** (11.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-dr-jon-lorsch-being-named-nih-deputy-director-extramural-research
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-clinical-trial-tuberculous-meningitis-drug-regimen-begins
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-mobilizes-national-innovation-initiative-covid-19-diagnostics
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-selection-dr-rick-woychik-senior-advisor-nih-director-make-america-healthy-again-strategy
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/roadmap-guide-progress-toward-replacing-animal-use-toxicity-testing
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2018-research-highlights-promising-medical-advances
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-scientists-say-advanced-vaccines-could-limit-future-outbreaks
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-selects-dr-steven-schiff-director-fogarty-international-center-associate-director-international-research
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/nih-almanac/about-nih-almanac
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/ncats-translational-science-education-training-challenge
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/eye-could-provide-window-brain-after-stroke
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/community-champions-disability-health-challenge
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-radx-initiative-expands-covid-19-testing-innovation-additional-types-rapid-tests
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/alzheimer-s-disease-may-damage-brain-two-phases
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/flu-infection-study-increases-understanding-natural-immunity
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/nih-launches-initiative-modernize-strengthen-biosafety-oversight
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-discovery-brings-stem-cell-therapy-eye-disease-closer-clinic
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-developed-ai-algorithm-matches-potential-volunteers-clinical-trials
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-basic-research-insights
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/h7n9-influenza-vaccine-clinical-trials-begin
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/research-funding-coordination
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/research-offers-clues-improved-influenza-vaccine-design

…and more — 134 pages total ([download CSV](csv/alfa__sia-r64.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r64

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives

---

## Presentational children of an element are not focusable (WCAG 1.3.1)

**Bug ID:** `VS-2f6e6409`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-d6097011`  
**URL:** https://nih.gov/about-nih/visitor-information/request-tour-nih  
**XPath / selector:** `<ul class="chosen-results">`  
**WCAG SC:** 1.3.1 — Info and Relationships (Level A)  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r68` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r68))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 15 instances; 12 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### Description
Presentational children of an element are not focusable. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r68 on 12 of 3333 scanned pages (15 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://nih.gov/about-nih/visitor-information/request-tour-nih.
2. Locate the element: <ul class="chosen-results">
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r68 against WCAG 1.3.1 Info and Relationships.

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited vision (2.4%), Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability (11.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability** (11.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/visitor-information/request-tour-nih
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=2
- https://nih.gov/heal/heal-funding-opportunities
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases
- https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=176
- https://nih.gov/heal/heal-initiative-requirements/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-program
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=2
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/virtual-tour
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=184
- https://www.nih.gov/heal/heal-funding-opportunities

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r68

### Example pages
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/visitor-information/request-tour-nih
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=2
- https://nih.gov/heal/heal-funding-opportunities

---

## Links must be distinguishable without relying on color (WCAG 1.4.1)

**Bug ID:** `VS-da22e465`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-8ade3360`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `p:nth-child(3) > a[title="(opens in a new window)"][data-extlink=""][rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer"]`  
**WCAG SC:** 1.4.1 — Use of Color (Level A)  
**Rule:** axe-core — `link-in-text-block` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/link-in-text-block?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Critical  
**Frequency:** 17561 instances; 3133 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (5 weeks)

### HTML snippet
```html
<a href="https://www.challenge.gov/?challenge=complement-arie" class="ext" data-extlink="" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" title="(opens in a new window)">Complement-ARIE Ideation C
```

### Description
Links must be distinguishable without relying on color. Detected by axe-core rule link-in-text-block on 3133 of 3333 scanned pages (17561 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge.
2. Locate the element: p:nth-child(3) > a[title="(opens in a new window)"][data-extlink=""][rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer"]
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule link-in-text-block against WCAG 1.4.1 Use of Color.

### Impact
Affects Without color perception (4.5%), Limited vision (2.4%).
- **Without color perception** (4.5% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/mrna-vaccine-treat-pancreatic-cancer
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/science-health-public-trust/checklist-communicating-science-health-research-public
- https://www.nih.gov/heal/award-policy/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-repository?page=14
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/how-exercise-can-protect-against-alzheimers
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/study-suggests-covid-19-vaccines-do-not-reduce-fertility
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/skin-compounds-associated-attractiveness-mosquitoes
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/research/tools-technologies-brain-cells-circuits/brain-initiative-cell-census-network
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://nih.gov/brain/research/systems-neuroscience
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/nih-foia-library/contact-information-nih-supported-pis
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/our-biggest-health-challenges/heart-disease-stroke
- https://nih.gov/nih-style-guide/nih
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/gut-microbe-drives-autoimmunity
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/obesity-metabolic-health
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-september-19-2013

…and more — 3133 pages total ([download CSV](csv/axe-core__link-in-text-block.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/link-in-text-block?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/mrna-vaccine-treat-pancreatic-cancer
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/science-health-public-trust/checklist-communicating-science-health-research-public

---

## Link in text block is visually distinguishable without color (WCAG 1.4.1)

**Bug ID:** `VS-de3dc9bb`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-efd91fdd`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `<a href="https://www.herox.com/SupplementsFactsFirst/updates" class="ext" data-extlink="" target="_blank">`  
**WCAG SC:** 1.4.1 — Use of Color (Level A)  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r62` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r62))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 4493 instances; 1548 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (3 weeks)

### Description
Link in text block is visually distinguishable without color. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r62 on 1548 of 3333 scanned pages (4493 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge.
2. Locate the element: <a href="https://www.herox.com/SupplementsFactsFirst/updates" class="ext" data-extlink="" target="_blank">
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r62 against WCAG 1.4.1 Use of Color.

### Impact
Affects Without color perception (4.5%), Limited vision (2.4%).
- **Without color perception** (4.5% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/research/tools-technologies-brain-cells-circuits/brain-initiative-cell-census-network
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://nih.gov/brain/research/systems-neuroscience
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/nih-foia-library/contact-information-nih-supported-pis
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/our-biggest-health-challenges/heart-disease-stroke
- https://nih.gov/nih-style-guide/nih
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-september-19-2013
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cerebellum-connects-brains-reward-system
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-style-guide/person-first-destigmatizing-language
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-dr-jon-lorsch-being-named-nih-deputy-director-extramural-research
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/antibody-treatment-protects-adults-against-malaria
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/how-much-longer-do-i-have
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/oral-small-molecule-glp-1-drugs-penetrate-deep-into-brain-suppress-cravings
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-2025-scientific-vision
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/machine-learning-predicts-risk-aneurysm
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/calorie-restriction-may-benefit-healthy-adults-under-50

…and more — 1548 pages total ([download CSV](csv/alfa__sia-r62.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Make links visually distinguishable from surrounding text (not by color alone).

See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r62

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain

---

## Scrollable region must have keyboard access (WCAG 2.1.1)

**Bug ID:** `VS-d227297d`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-c613c153`  
**URL:** https://nih.gov/heal/heal-initiative-requirements/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-program  
**XPath / selector:** `.usa-table-container--scrollable:nth-child(29)`  
**WCAG SC:** 2.1.1 — Keyboard (Level A)  
**Rule:** axe-core — `scrollable-region-focusable` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/scrollable-region-focusable?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Serious  
**Frequency:** 4 instances; 1 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### HTML snippet
```html
<div class="usa-table-container--scrollable">
```

### Description
Scrollable region must have keyboard access. Detected by axe-core rule scrollable-region-focusable on 1 of 3333 scanned pages (4 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://nih.gov/heal/heal-initiative-requirements/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-program.
2. Locate the element: .usa-table-container--scrollable:nth-child(29)
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule scrollable-region-focusable against WCAG 2.1.1 Keyboard.

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited manipulation/strength (13.0%), Limited reach (2.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited manipulation/strength** (13.0% of population)
- **Limited reach** (2.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://nih.gov/heal/heal-initiative-requirements/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-program

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Make scrollable regions keyboard-focusable (tabindex="0") so keyboard users can scroll them.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/scrollable-region-focusable?application=axeAPI

---

## Links must have discernible text (WCAG 2.4.4)

**Bug ID:** `VS-6fe78636`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-e9fe47ac`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `.usa-in-page-nav__link[href="#"]`  
**WCAG SC:** 2.4.4 — Link Purpose (In Context) (Level A)  
**Rule:** axe-core — `link-name` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/link-name?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Serious  
**Frequency:** 26 instances; 26 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### HTML snippet
```html
<a href="#" class="usa-in-page-nav__link"></a>
```

### Description
Links must have discernible text. Detected by axe-core rule link-name on 26 of 3333 scanned pages (26 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge.
2. Locate the element: .usa-in-page-nav__link[href="#"]
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule link-name against WCAG 2.4.4 Link Purpose (In Context).

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited vision (2.4%), Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability (11.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability** (11.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/ncats-translational-science-education-training-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/community-champions-disability-health-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/targeting-rna-disease-novel-technologies-trdnt-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-data-sharing-index-s-index-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/ninds-landis-award-outstanding-mentorship
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/arise-hiv-launch-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/radxr-tech-act-endo-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/beauty-health-youth-graphic-medicine-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-quantum-computing-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/targeted-genome-editor-delivery-targeted-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/lymex-visible-voices-prize
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/rare-diseases-are-not-rare-2025-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/2025-nia-start-up-challenge-and-accelerator
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/2026-design-biomedical-undergraduate-teams-debut-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/lymex-healthathon
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/oligonucleotide-toxicity-oligotox-open-data-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/replication-prize
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/topx-hhs-tech-sprint-ai-invisible-illness
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nourish-nutrition-our-immune-system-health-autoimmunity-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/quit-thrive-challenge-community-derived-solutions-reduce-menthol-cigarette-smoking
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-quantum-sensing-technology-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/2025-100000-start-sud-startup-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/competency-menopause-integrated-therapy-commit-challenge

…and more — 26 pages total ([download CSV](csv/axe-core__link-name.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Give the link discernible text. Avoid empty links and icon-only links without an aria-label.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/link-name?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/ncats-translational-science-education-training-challenge

---

## Link has accessible name (WCAG 2.4.4)

**Bug ID:** `VS-4f2826ea`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-28ebd979`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `<a href="#" class="usa-in-page-nav__link">`  
**WCAG SC:** 2.4.4 — Link Purpose (In Context) (Level A)  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r11` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r11))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 13 instances; 13 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### Description
Link has accessible name. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r11 on 13 of 3333 scanned pages (13 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge.
2. Locate the element: <a href="#" class="usa-in-page-nav__link">
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r11 against WCAG 2.4.4 Link Purpose (In Context).

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited vision (2.4%), Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability (11.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability** (11.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/ncats-translational-science-education-training-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/community-champions-disability-health-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/arise-hiv-launch-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/beauty-health-youth-graphic-medicine-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-quantum-computing-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/targeted-genome-editor-delivery-targeted-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/lymex-visible-voices-prize
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/rare-diseases-are-not-rare-2025-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/2025-nia-start-up-challenge-and-accelerator
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/lymex-healthathon
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/oligonucleotide-toxicity-oligotox-open-data-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/quit-thrive-challenge-community-derived-solutions-reduce-menthol-cigarette-smoking

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Give the link an accessible name via text content or aria-label.

See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r11

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/ncats-translational-science-education-training-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/community-champions-disability-health-challenge

---

## Elements must only use supported ARIA attributes (WCAG 4.1.2)

**Bug ID:** `VS-edba72fa`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-1467ea8a`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `div[aria-multiselectable="true"]`  
**WCAG SC:** 4.1.2 — Name, Role, Value (Level A)  
**Rule:** axe-core — `aria-allowed-attr` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/aria-allowed-attr?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Critical  
**Frequency:** 41 instances; 28 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### HTML snippet
```html
<div aria-multiselectable="true" class="usa-accordion usa-accordion--bordered paragraph paragraph--type--uswds-accordion paragraph--view-mode--default">
```

### Description
Elements must only use supported ARIA attributes. Detected by axe-core rule aria-allowed-attr on 28 of 3333 scanned pages (41 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge.
2. Locate the element: div[aria-multiselectable="true"]
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule aria-allowed-attr against WCAG 4.1.2 Name, Role, Value.

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited vision (2.4%), Limited manipulation/strength (13.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Limited manipulation/strength** (13.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-2025-scientific-vision
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/ncats-translational-science-education-training-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-20-neuroethics-enabling-enhancing-neuroscience-advances-society
- https://www.nih.gov/brain/about/vision/brain-2025-scientific-vision
- https://www.nih.gov/brain/about/budget
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/blueprint-research-initiatives/blueprint-neurotherapeutics-network-bpn-small-molecules
- https://nih.gov/brain/funding/funding-opportunities
- https://www.nih.gov/heal/resources
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/blueprint-research-initiatives/blueprint-medtech
- https://www.nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you/basics
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-20-neuroethics-enabling-enhancing-neuroscience-advances-society
- https://nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/blueprint-research-initiatives/blueprint-neurotherapeutics-network-bpn-small-molecules
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/radxr-tech-act-endo-challenge
- https://nih.gov/heal/resources
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/targeted-genome-editor-delivery-targeted-challenge
- https://nih.gov/brain-initiative/funding/funding-opportunities
- https://www.nih.gov/brain/research/dissemination/u24-program/u24-faqs
- https://www.nih.gov/brain/about/resources/communications-toolkit
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/oligonucleotide-toxicity-oligotox-open-data-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/brain/about/vision/brain-20-cells-circuits-toward-cures
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/funding/funding-opportunities
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-quantum-sensing-technology-challenge
- https://nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you/list-registries
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/research/dissemination/u24-program/u24-faqs

…and more — 28 pages total ([download CSV](csv/axe-core__aria-allowed-attr.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Remove ARIA attributes that aren't allowed on this role/element.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/aria-allowed-attr?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-2025-scientific-vision
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/ncats-translational-science-education-training-challenge

---

## Form elements must have labels (WCAG 4.1.2)

**Bug ID:** `VS-1687da13`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-fafffee0`  
**URL:** https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=181  
**XPath / selector:** `.chosen-search-input`  
**WCAG SC:** 4.1.2 — Name, Role, Value (Level A)  
**Rule:** axe-core — `label` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/label?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Critical  
**Frequency:** 28 instances; 24 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### HTML snippet
```html
<input class="chosen-search-input" type="text" autocomplete="off" readonly="" data-bef-auto-submit-exclude="true">
```

### Description
Form elements must have labels. Detected by axe-core rule label on 24 of 3333 scanned pages (28 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=181.
2. Locate the element: .chosen-search-input
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule label against WCAG 4.1.2 Name, Role, Value.

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited vision (2.4%), Limited manipulation/strength (13.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Limited manipulation/strength** (13.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=181
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=179
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/visitor-information/request-tour-nih
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=2
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=0
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=178
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=3
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=0
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=4
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=176
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/visitor-information/request-tour-nih
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=184
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=2
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=183
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=182
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=1
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=177
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=180
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=184
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=175
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=1

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Associate every form control with a <label> (via for/id) or an aria-label/aria-labelledby.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/label?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=181
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=179
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/visitor-information/request-tour-nih

---

## Form field has accessible name (WCAG 4.1.2)

**Bug ID:** `VS-32ff3c2f`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-a48e6078`  
**URL:** https://nih.gov/about-nih/visitor-information/request-tour-nih  
**XPath / selector:** `<input class="chosen-search-input" type="text" autocomplete="off" data-bef-auto-submit-exclude="true">`  
**WCAG SC:** 4.1.2 — Name, Role, Value (Level A)  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r8` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r8))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 8 instances; 6 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### Description
Form field has accessible name. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r8 on 6 of 3333 scanned pages (8 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://nih.gov/about-nih/visitor-information/request-tour-nih.
2. Locate the element: <input class="chosen-search-input" type="text" autocomplete="off" data-bef-auto-submit-exclude="true">
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r8 against WCAG 4.1.2 Name, Role, Value.

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited vision (2.4%), Limited manipulation/strength (13.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Limited manipulation/strength** (13.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/visitor-information/request-tour-nih
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=2
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=176
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=2
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=184

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Associate the form field with a label.

See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r8

### Example pages
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/visitor-information/request-tour-nih
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases?page=2
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases

---

## Elements must meet minimum color contrast ratio thresholds (WCAG 1.4.3)

**Bug ID:** `VS-9144de23`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-be8d563e`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/research-tools  
**XPath / selector:** `.field--name-field-credit`  
**WCAG SC:** 1.4.3 — Contrast (Minimum) (Level AA)  
**Rule:** axe-core — `color-contrast` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/color-contrast?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Serious  
**Frequency:** 21 instances; 12 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### HTML snippet
```html
<div class="field field--name-field-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Sagar/Adobe Stock</div>
```

### Description
Elements must meet minimum color contrast ratio thresholds. Detected by axe-core rule color-contrast on 12 of 3333 scanned pages (21 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/research-tools.
2. Locate the element: .field--name-field-credit
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule color-contrast against WCAG 1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum).

### Impact
Affects Limited vision (2.4%), Without color perception (4.5%).
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Without color perception** (4.5% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/research-tools
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/history
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/history/tree-hippocrates
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/history/history-nih-logo
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/organization/history
- https://nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/training
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/history/tree-hippocrates
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/about-nih/organization/history
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/history
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/organization/history
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/about-nih/history
- https://nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/research-tools

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Increase the contrast between text and its background to at least 4.5:1 (3:1 for large text). Check both light and dark modes.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/color-contrast?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/research-tools
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/history
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/history/tree-hippocrates

---

## Text has sufficient color contrast (Enhanced) (WCAG 1.4.3)

**Bug ID:** `VS-9f270c85`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-f7e99f4b`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/history  
**XPath / selector:** `text: "Dr. Joseph Goldberger seated at a table in a hospital."`  
**WCAG SC:** 1.4.3 — Contrast (Minimum) (Level AA)  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r69` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r69))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 10 instances; 5 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### Description
Text has sufficient color contrast (Enhanced). Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r69 on 5 of 3333 scanned pages (10 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/history.
2. Locate the element: text: "Dr. Joseph Goldberger seated at a table in a hospital."
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r69 against WCAG 1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum).

### Impact
Affects Limited vision (2.4%), Without color perception (4.5%).
- **Limited vision** (2.4% of population)
- **Without color perception** (4.5% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/history
- https://nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/training
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/history
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/organization/history
- https://nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/research-tools

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Increase text contrast to meet WCAG AA (4.5:1, or 3:1 for large text).

See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r69

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/history
- https://nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research/training
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/history

---

## lang attribute must have a valid value (WCAG 3.1.2)

**Bug ID:** `VS-e7a698a2`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-dd1c019f`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-affairs  
**XPath / selector:** `li:nth-child(12) > a[lang="esp"]`  
**WCAG SC:** 3.1.2 — Language of Parts (Level AA)  
**Rule:** axe-core — `valid-lang` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/valid-lang?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Serious  
**Frequency:** 40 instances; 20 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### HTML snippet
```html
<a href="https://salud.nih.gov/preguntele-a-carla" lang="esp">Pregúntele a Carla</a>
```

### Description
lang attribute must have a valid value. Detected by axe-core rule valid-lang on 20 of 3333 scanned pages (40 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-affairs.
2. Locate the element: li:nth-child(12) > a[lang="esp"]
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule valid-lang against WCAG 3.1.2 Language of Parts.

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability (11.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability** (11.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-affairs
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-january-10-2019
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-september-15-2022
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-information
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-may-11-2023
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-october-15-2020
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/contact-ocpl
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-affairs
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-information
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-march-18-2021
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-june-20-2019
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-september-16-2021
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/contact-ocpl
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-information
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-affairs
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/contact-ocpl
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-march-15-2018

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/valid-lang?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-affairs
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-january-10-2019
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-september-15-2022

---

## Element with lang attribute has correct language (WCAG 3.1.2)

**Bug ID:** `VS-3e6eb6fd`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-400f3a18`  
**URL:** https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-january-10-2019  
**XPath / selector:** `@lang="esp"`  
**WCAG SC:** 3.1.2 — Language of Parts (Level AA)  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r7` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r7))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 22 instances; 11 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### Description
Element with lang attribute has correct language. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r7 on 11 of 3333 scanned pages (22 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-january-10-2019.
2. Locate the element: @lang="esp"
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r7 against WCAG 3.1.2 Language of Parts.

### Impact
Affects Without vision (1.0%), Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability (11.0%).
- **Without vision** (1.0% of population)
- **Limited cognitive, language, or learning ability** (11.0% of population)

### Affected pages
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-january-10-2019
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-information
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/contact-ocpl
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-information
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-march-18-2021
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-june-20-2019
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-september-16-2021
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-information
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-affairs
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-march-15-2018

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r7

### Example pages
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-january-10-2019
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/public-information

---

## Text has enhanced contrast (WCAG 1.4.6)

**Bug ID:** `VS-03c515a9`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-646b1e0b`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `text: "Health Information"`  
**WCAG SC:** 1.4.6 — Contrast (Enhanced) (Level AAA)  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r66` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r66))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 80442 instances; 1548 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (3 weeks)

### Description
Text has enhanced contrast. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r66 on 1548 of 3333 scanned pages (80442 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge.
2. Locate the element: text: "Health Information"
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r66 against WCAG 1.4.6 Contrast (Enhanced).

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/research/tools-technologies-brain-cells-circuits/brain-initiative-cell-census-network
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://nih.gov/brain/research/systems-neuroscience
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/nih-foia-library/contact-information-nih-supported-pis
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/our-biggest-health-challenges/heart-disease-stroke
- https://nih.gov/nih-style-guide/nih
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-september-19-2013
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cerebellum-connects-brains-reward-system
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-style-guide/person-first-destigmatizing-language
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-dr-jon-lorsch-being-named-nih-deputy-director-extramural-research
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/antibody-treatment-protects-adults-against-malaria
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/how-much-longer-do-i-have
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/oral-small-molecule-glp-1-drugs-penetrate-deep-into-brain-suppress-cravings
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-2025-scientific-vision
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/machine-learning-predicts-risk-aneurysm
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/calorie-restriction-may-benefit-healthy-adults-under-50

…and more — 1548 pages total ([download CSV](csv/alfa__sia-r66.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Increase text contrast to meet WCAG AAA (7:1).

See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r66

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain

---

## Text has minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 (WCAG 1.4.8)

**Bug ID:** `VS-155b6c41`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-2208081b`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `<p class="usa-banner__header-text">`  
**WCAG SC:** 1.4.8 — Visual Presentation (Level AAA)  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r73` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r73))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 5176 instances; 1548 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (3 weeks)

### Description
Text has minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r73 on 1548 of 3333 scanned pages (5176 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge.
2. Locate the element: <p class="usa-banner__header-text">
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r73 against WCAG 1.4.8 Visual Presentation.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/research/tools-technologies-brain-cells-circuits/brain-initiative-cell-census-network
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://nih.gov/brain/research/systems-neuroscience
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/nih-foia-library/contact-information-nih-supported-pis
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/our-biggest-health-challenges/heart-disease-stroke
- https://nih.gov/nih-style-guide/nih
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-september-19-2013
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cerebellum-connects-brains-reward-system
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-style-guide/person-first-destigmatizing-language
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-dr-jon-lorsch-being-named-nih-deputy-director-extramural-research
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/antibody-treatment-protects-adults-against-malaria
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/how-much-longer-do-i-have
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/oral-small-molecule-glp-1-drugs-penetrate-deep-into-brain-suppress-cravings
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-2025-scientific-vision
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/machine-learning-predicts-risk-aneurysm
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/calorie-restriction-may-benefit-healthy-adults-under-50

…and more — 1548 pages total ([download CSV](csv/alfa__sia-r73.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r73

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain

---

## Target size is at least 44×44 CSS pixels (Enhanced) (WCAG 2.5.5)

**Bug ID:** `VS-0b07e666`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-cb53cc4d`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `<a href="/virtual-tour">`  
**WCAG SC:** 2.5.5 — Target Size (Enhanced) (Level AAA)  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r111` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r111))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 42751 instances; 1550 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (3 weeks)

### Description
Target size is at least 44×44 CSS pixels (Enhanced). Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r111 on 1550 of 3333 scanned pages (42751 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge.
2. Locate the element: <a href="/virtual-tour">
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r111 against WCAG 2.5.5 Target Size (Enhanced).

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/research/tools-technologies-brain-cells-circuits/brain-initiative-cell-census-network
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://nih.gov/brain/research/systems-neuroscience
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/nih-foia-library/contact-information-nih-supported-pis
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/our-biggest-health-challenges/heart-disease-stroke
- https://nih.gov/nih-style-guide/nih
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-september-19-2013
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cerebellum-connects-brains-reward-system
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-style-guide/person-first-destigmatizing-language
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-dr-jon-lorsch-being-named-nih-deputy-director-extramural-research
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/antibody-treatment-protects-adults-against-malaria
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/how-much-longer-do-i-have
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/oral-small-molecule-glp-1-drugs-penetrate-deep-into-brain-suppress-cravings
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-2025-scientific-vision
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/machine-learning-predicts-risk-aneurysm
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/calorie-restriction-may-benefit-healthy-adults-under-50

…and more — 1550 pages total ([download CSV](csv/alfa__sia-r111.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r111

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain

---

## All page content should be contained by landmarks (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-776fe25a`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-f18df681`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `#system-breadcrumb`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** axe-core — `region` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/region?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Serious  
**Frequency:** 4177 instances; 3122 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (5 weeks)

### HTML snippet
```html
<h2 id="system-breadcrumb" class="visually-hidden">Breadcrumb</h2>
```

### Description
All page content should be contained by landmarks. Detected by axe-core rule region on 3122 of 3333 scanned pages (4177 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge.
2. Locate the element: #system-breadcrumb
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule region.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/mrna-vaccine-treat-pancreatic-cancer
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/science-health-public-trust/checklist-communicating-science-health-research-public
- https://www.nih.gov/heal/award-policy/data-sharing-policy/common-data-elements-cdes-repository?page=14
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/how-exercise-can-protect-against-alzheimers
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/study-suggests-covid-19-vaccines-do-not-reduce-fertility
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/skin-compounds-associated-attractiveness-mosquitoes
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/research/tools-technologies-brain-cells-circuits/brain-initiative-cell-census-network
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://nih.gov/brain/research/systems-neuroscience
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/nih-foia-library/contact-information-nih-supported-pis
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/our-biggest-health-challenges/heart-disease-stroke
- https://nih.gov/nih-style-guide/nih
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/gut-microbe-drives-autoimmunity
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/obesity-metabolic-health
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-september-19-2013

…and more — 3122 pages total ([download CSV](csv/axe-core__region.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Wrap all page content in landmarks (header, nav, main, footer) so users can navigate by region.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/region?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/mrna-vaccine-treat-pancreatic-cancer
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/science-health-public-trust/checklist-communicating-science-health-research-public

---

## Heading levels should only increase by one (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-240e2ce9`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-d25f622d`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `.promo-block__heading`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** axe-core — `heading-order` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/heading-order?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Serious  
**Frequency:** 2442 instances; 2300 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (3 weeks)

### HTML snippet
```html
<h3 class="promo-block__heading"><a id="" class="usa-anchor"></a></h3>
```

### Description
Heading levels should only increase by one. Detected by axe-core rule heading-order on 2300 of 3333 scanned pages (2442 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge.
2. Locate the element: .promo-block__heading
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule heading-order.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/mrna-vaccine-treat-pancreatic-cancer
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/science-health-public-trust/checklist-communicating-science-health-research-public
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/how-exercise-can-protect-against-alzheimers
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/study-suggests-covid-19-vaccines-do-not-reduce-fertility
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/skin-compounds-associated-attractiveness-mosquitoes
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/our-biggest-health-challenges/heart-disease-stroke
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/gut-microbe-drives-autoimmunity
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/obesity-metabolic-health
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-september-19-2013
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/blood-brain-barrier-test-may-predict-dementia
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/brain-stimulation-can-affect-memory-older-adults
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cerebellum-connects-brains-reward-system
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/diabetes-boosts-antibiotic-resistance-mice
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2024-nih-research-highlights-human-health-advances
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-july-17-2014

…and more — 2300 pages total ([download CSV](csv/axe-core__heading-order.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Use heading levels in order (h1 → h2 → h3) without skipping; structure, not size.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/heading-order?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/mrna-vaccine-treat-pancreatic-cancer
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/science-health-public-trust/checklist-communicating-science-health-research-public

---

## Landmarks should have a unique role or role/label/title (i.e. accessible name) c (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-6ad8a6b0`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-8806389c`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/mrna-vaccine-treat-pancreatic-cancer  
**XPath / selector:** `#block-nih2-uswds-search`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** axe-core — `landmark-unique` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/landmark-unique?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 1473 instances; 1468 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### HTML snippet
```html
<div class="search-block-form usa-form block block-search container-inline" data-drupal-selector="search-block-form" id="block-nih2-uswds-search" role="search">
```

### Description
Landmarks should have a unique role or role/label/title (i.e. accessible name) c. Detected by axe-core rule landmark-unique on 1468 of 3333 scanned pages (1473 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/mrna-vaccine-treat-pancreatic-cancer.
2. Locate the element: #block-nih2-uswds-search
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule landmark-unique.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/mrna-vaccine-treat-pancreatic-cancer
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/how-exercise-can-protect-against-alzheimers
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/study-suggests-covid-19-vaccines-do-not-reduce-fertility
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/skin-compounds-associated-attractiveness-mosquitoes
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/gut-microbe-drives-autoimmunity
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/obesity-metabolic-health
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/blood-brain-barrier-test-may-predict-dementia
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/brain-stimulation-can-affect-memory-older-adults
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cerebellum-connects-brains-reward-system
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/diabetes-boosts-antibiotic-resistance-mice
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2024-nih-research-highlights-human-health-advances
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/alzheimers-proteins-blood-linked-midlife-cognition
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/faster-better-images-cutting-edge-microscopes
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/e-cigarettes-may-complicate-teen-attempts-quit-nicotine
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/antibody-treatment-protects-adults-against-malaria
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/rural-youth-often-lack-access-suicide-prevention-services
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/oral-antiviral-drug-effective-against-covid-19-hamsters
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/how-excess-niacin-may-promote-cardiovascular-disease
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/stopping-scar-tissue-improves-healing-after-heart-attack-mice
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/machine-learning-predicts-risk-aneurysm

…and more — 1468 pages total ([download CSV](csv/axe-core__landmark-unique.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** When a landmark role/type repeats (e.g. two <nav>s), give each a distinct accessible name with aria-label or aria-labelledby (e.g. "Primary" and "Footer" navigation) so screen-reader users can tell them apart.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/landmark-unique?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/mrna-vaccine-treat-pancreatic-cancer
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19

---

## Page should contain a level-one heading (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-98baebe9`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-fa44f293`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/node  
**XPath / selector:** `html`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** axe-core — `page-has-heading-one` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/page-has-heading-one?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 40 instances; 40 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (2 weeks)

### HTML snippet
```html
<html lang="en" dir="ltr" prefix="og: https://ogp.me/ns#" class=" js">
```

### Description
Page should contain a level-one heading. Detected by axe-core rule page-has-heading-one on 40 of 3333 scanned pages (40 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/node.
2. Locate the element: html
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule page-has-heading-one.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/node
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-january-10-2019
- https://nih.gov/about-nih
- https://nih.gov/research-training
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/neuroscience-blueprint
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/health-information
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-may-11-2023
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-october-15-2020
- https://nih.gov/heal
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/institutes-nih
- https://nih.gov/node
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/heal
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-march-18-2021
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-june-20-2019
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events
- https://nih.gov/health-information
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative
- https://www.nih.gov/grants-funding
- https://www.nih.gov/neuroscience-blueprint
- https://nih.gov/brain
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-blueprint-neuroscience-research
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/about-nih
- https://nih.gov/news-events
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you/health-care-providers

…and more — 40 pages total ([download CSV](csv/axe-core__page-has-heading-one.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/page-has-heading-one?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/node
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-thursday-january-10-2019
- https://nih.gov/about-nih

---

## Headings should not be empty (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-725503c3`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-0066c67d`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `.promo-block__heading`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** axe-core — `empty-heading` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/empty-heading?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Minor  
**Frequency:** 271 instances; 271 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (2 weeks)

### HTML snippet
```html
<h3 class="promo-block__heading"><a id="" class="usa-anchor"></a></h3>
```

### Description
Headings should not be empty. Detected by axe-core rule empty-heading on 271 of 3333 scanned pages (271 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge.
2. Locate the element: .promo-block__heading
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule empty-heading.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-dr-jon-lorsch-being-named-nih-deputy-director-extramural-research
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-clinical-trial-tuberculous-meningitis-drug-regimen-begins
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-mobilizes-national-innovation-initiative-covid-19-diagnostics
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-launches-new-office-advance-human-based-research-reduce-animal-use
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-selection-dr-rick-woychik-senior-advisor-nih-director-make-america-healthy-again-strategy
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/nih-almanac/about-nih-almanac
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/epilepsy-study-links-mossy-brain-cells-seizures-memory-loss
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/when-test-offers-free-online-tool-help-individuals-make-informed-covid-19-testing-decisions
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-scientists-search-clocks-behind-aging-brain-disorders
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-launches-partnership-improve-success-clinical-trials-patients-parkinsons-disease
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/roadmap-guide-progress-toward-replacing-animal-use-toxicity-testing
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-launch-genome-editing-research-program
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2018-research-highlights-promising-medical-advances
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/us-clinical-trials-begin-twice-yearly-hiv-prevention-injection
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-scientists-say-advanced-vaccines-could-limit-future-outbreaks
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/telebriefing-ntp-draft-conclusions-radiofrequency-radiation-studies-rats-mice
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-selects-dr-steven-schiff-director-fogarty-international-center-associate-director-international-research
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-begins-large-hiv-treatment-study-pregnant-women
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/third-young-adults-have-ridden-impaired-driver-nih-analysis-suggests
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-launches-new-office-advance-human-based-research-reduce-animal-use
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/nih-almanac/about-nih-almanac

…and more — 271 pages total ([download CSV](csv/axe-core__empty-heading.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Remove empty headings or give them text. Don't use heading tags for spacing.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/empty-heading?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/nih-complement-animal-research-experimentation-nams-reduction-practice-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0

---

## ARIA role should be appropriate for the element (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-2213531d`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-4fac2f41`  
**URL:** https://nih.gov/virtual-tour  
**XPath / selector:** `video`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** axe-core — `aria-allowed-role` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/aria-allowed-role?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Minor  
**Frequency:** 3 instances; 3 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### HTML snippet
```html
<video class="ct-app-background__media--video" autoplay="" muted="" loop="" crossorigin="anonymous" playsinline="" role="presentation">
							<source src="https://nih.hostexp.com/videos/VID_202209131
```

### Description
ARIA role should be appropriate for the element. Detected by axe-core rule aria-allowed-role on 3 of 3333 scanned pages (3 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://nih.gov/virtual-tour.
2. Locate the element: video
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule aria-allowed-role.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://nih.gov/virtual-tour
- https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/virtual-tour

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Remove or change the ARIA role — it isn't allowed on this element type.

See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/aria-allowed-role?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://nih.gov/virtual-tour
- https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/virtual-tour

---

## Alternative text of images should not be repeated as text (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-fb15701e`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-f528778d`  
**URL:** https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication  
**XPath / selector:** `img[alt="Health Literacy"]`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** axe-core — `image-redundant-alt` ([reference](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/image-redundant-alt?application=axeAPI))  
**Severity:** Minor  
**Frequency:** 6 instances; 2 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### HTML snippet
```html
<img loading="eager" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/teaser_900x527/public/2025-02/clear-comm-health-literacy_0.jpg?itok=WgUQl-_B 1x" width="900" height="auto" src="/sites/default/files/styles/tea
```

### Description
Alternative text of images should not be repeated as text. Detected by axe-core rule image-redundant-alt on 2 of 3333 scanned pages (6 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication.
2. Locate the element: img[alt="Health Literacy"]
3. Confirm the axe-core finding for rule image-redundant-alt.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication

### Testing environment
Automated: axe-core, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.12/image-redundant-alt?application=axeAPI

### Example pages
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication

---

## aria attribute is permitted for element role (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-179459e3`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-e05344b9`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `@aria-labelledby="promo block"`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r18` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r18))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 3140 instances; 1550 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (3 weeks)

### Description
aria attribute is permitted for element role. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r18 on 1550 of 3333 scanned pages (3140 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge.
2. Locate the element: @aria-labelledby="promo block"
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r18.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/research/tools-technologies-brain-cells-circuits/brain-initiative-cell-census-network
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://nih.gov/brain/research/systems-neuroscience
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/nih-foia-library/contact-information-nih-supported-pis
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/our-biggest-health-challenges/heart-disease-stroke
- https://nih.gov/nih-style-guide/nih
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-september-19-2013
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cerebellum-connects-brains-reward-system
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-style-guide/person-first-destigmatizing-language
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-dr-jon-lorsch-being-named-nih-deputy-director-extramural-research
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/antibody-treatment-protects-adults-against-malaria
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/how-much-longer-do-i-have
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/oral-small-molecule-glp-1-drugs-penetrate-deep-into-brain-suppress-cravings
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-2025-scientific-vision
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/machine-learning-predicts-risk-aneurysm
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/calorie-restriction-may-benefit-healthy-adults-under-50

…and more — 1550 pages total ([download CSV](csv/alfa__sia-r18.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Only use ARIA states/properties that are allowed on this element/role.

See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r18

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain

---

## Form field label is visible (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-9bbf7b09`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-7118fead`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `{"type":"document","children":[{"type":"type","name":"html","publicId":null,"sys`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r61` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r61))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 1548 instances; 1548 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (3 weeks)

### Description
Form field label is visible. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r61 on 1548 of 3333 scanned pages (1548 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge.
2. Locate the element: {"type":"document","children":[{"type":"type","name":"html","publicId":null,"sys
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r61.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/research/tools-technologies-brain-cells-circuits/brain-initiative-cell-census-network
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://nih.gov/brain/research/systems-neuroscience
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/nih-foia-library/contact-information-nih-supported-pis
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/our-biggest-health-challenges/heart-disease-stroke
- https://nih.gov/nih-style-guide/nih
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-september-19-2013
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cerebellum-connects-brains-reward-system
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-style-guide/person-first-destigmatizing-language
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-dr-jon-lorsch-being-named-nih-deputy-director-extramural-research
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/antibody-treatment-protects-adults-against-malaria
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/how-much-longer-do-i-have
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/oral-small-molecule-glp-1-drugs-penetrate-deep-into-brain-suppress-cravings
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-2025-scientific-vision
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/machine-learning-predicts-risk-aneurysm
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/calorie-restriction-may-benefit-healthy-adults-under-50

…and more — 1548 pages total ([download CSV](csv/alfa__sia-r61.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r61

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain

---

## Scrolling content can be accessed by keyboard (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-930d02f2`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-c18be945`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `text: "Breadcrumb"`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r57` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r57))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 3621 instances; 1541 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (3 weeks)

### Description
Scrolling content can be accessed by keyboard. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r57 on 1541 of 3333 scanned pages (3621 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge.
2. Locate the element: text: "Breadcrumb"
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r57.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://www.nih.gov/brain-initiative/research/tools-technologies-brain-cells-circuits/brain-initiative-cell-census-network
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- https://nih.gov/brain/research/systems-neuroscience
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/nih-foia-library/contact-information-nih-supported-pis
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/our-biggest-health-challenges/heart-disease-stroke
- https://nih.gov/nih-style-guide/nih
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-september-19-2013
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cerebellum-connects-brains-reward-system
- https://www.nih.gov/nih-style-guide/person-first-destigmatizing-language
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-dr-jon-lorsch-being-named-nih-deputy-director-extramural-research
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/antibody-treatment-protects-adults-against-malaria
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/how-much-longer-do-i-have
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/oral-small-molecule-glp-1-drugs-penetrate-deep-into-brain-suppress-cravings
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-2025-scientific-vision
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/machine-learning-predicts-risk-aneurysm
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/calorie-restriction-may-benefit-healthy-adults-under-50

…and more — 1541 pages total ([download CSV](csv/alfa__sia-r57.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r57

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/other-public-information-servers
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain

---

## Headings are structured hierarchically (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-8a6e1bca`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-f054f4a4`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `<h3 class="promo-block__heading">`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r53` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r53))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 1182 instances; 1117 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W25, last seen 2026-W29 (2 weeks)

### Description
Headings are structured hierarchically. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r53 on 1117 of 3333 scanned pages (1182 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge.
2. Locate the element: <h3 class="promo-block__heading">
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r53.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/potent-antibodies-found-people-recovered-covid-19
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/2021-research-highlights-human-health-advances-0
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cell-atlases-give-detailed-views-human-organs
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/replacing-function-impaired-cystic-fibrosis-protein
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/our-biggest-health-challenges/heart-disease-stroke
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/freedom-information-act-office/community-liaison-council-meeting-minutes-september-19-2013
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cerebellum-connects-brains-reward-system
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-dr-jon-lorsch-being-named-nih-deputy-director-extramural-research
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/antibody-treatment-protects-adults-against-malaria
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/how-much-longer-do-i-have
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/oral-small-molecule-glp-1-drugs-penetrate-deep-into-brain-suppress-cravings
- https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/brain-initiative/about/vision/brain-2025-scientific-vision
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/machine-learning-predicts-risk-aneurysm
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/calorie-restriction-may-benefit-healthy-adults-under-50
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-clinical-trial-tuberculous-meningitis-drug-regimen-begins
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/how-environment-can-shape-future-allergies
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/comparing-heart-failure-drugs
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-mobilizes-national-innovation-initiative-covid-19-diagnostics
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/wearable-ultrasound-patch-tracks-blood-pressure
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/physical-clot-removal-can-help-more-people-after-stroke

…and more — 1117 pages total ([download CSV](csv/alfa__sia-r53.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
**How to fix:** Use headings in a logical, non-skipping order.

See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r53

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- https://nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/immune-cells-control-waste-clearance-brain
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/voices-nih-community/they-cant-be-talking-about-me

---

## Keyboard trap does not exist (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-da93b03f`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-4c341c77`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge  
**XPath / selector:** `<p class="nih-subtitle">`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r85` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r85))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 258 instances; 212 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### Description
Keyboard trap does not exist. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r85 on 212 of 3333 scanned pages (258 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge.
2. Locate the element: <p class="nih-subtitle">
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r85.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-dr-jon-lorsch-being-named-nih-deputy-director-extramural-research
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/oral-small-molecule-glp-1-drugs-penetrate-deep-into-brain-suppress-cravings
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-clinical-trial-tuberculous-meningitis-drug-regimen-begins
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/nih-almanac/tara-schwetz-phd
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-mobilizes-national-innovation-initiative-covid-19-diagnostics
- https://nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/advancing-mecfs-research/events/genomics-genetic-susceptibilities-november-1-2023
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/statement-selection-dr-rick-woychik-senior-advisor-nih-director-make-america-healthy-again-strategy
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-almanac/john-w-diggs-phd
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/roadmap-guide-progress-toward-replacing-animal-use-toxicity-testing
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-scientists-say-advanced-vaccines-could-limit-future-outbreaks
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-selects-dr-steven-schiff-director-fogarty-international-center-associate-director-international-research
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/ncats-translational-science-education-training-challenge
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/nih-almanac/joseph-e-rall-md-phd
- https://nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/advancing-mecfs-research/events/lesser-studied-pathologies-january-5-2024
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/nih-almanac/national-institute-diabetes-digestive-kidney-diseases-niddk
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/eye-could-provide-window-brain-after-stroke
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/community-champions-disability-health-challenge
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-radx-initiative-expands-covid-19-testing-innovation-additional-types-rapid-tests
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-almanac/robert-q-marston-md
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-almanac/lewis-ryers-thompson-md
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/directors-seminar-series
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-almanac/national-institute-dental-craniofacial-research-nidcr

…and more — 212 pages total ([download CSV](csv/alfa__sia-r85.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r85

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/challenges/supplements-facts-first-digital-adventure-every-age-challenge
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-clinical-trial-links-frequent-anger-increased-risk-heart-disease
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/brain-scan-guided-emergency-stroke-treatment-can-save-more-lives

---

## Table header has scope (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-5f56950e`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-2cd767ca`  
**URL:** https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-clinical-trial-tuberculous-meningitis-drug-regimen-begins  
**XPath / selector:** `<h3>`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r78` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r78))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 110 instances; 80 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### Description
Table header has scope. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r78 on 80 of 3333 scanned pages (110 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-clinical-trial-tuberculous-meningitis-drug-regimen-begins.
2. Locate the element: <h3>
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r78.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-clinical-trial-tuberculous-meningitis-drug-regimen-begins
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-mobilizes-national-innovation-initiative-covid-19-diagnostics
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/roadmap-guide-progress-toward-replacing-animal-use-toxicity-testing
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-scientists-say-advanced-vaccines-could-limit-future-outbreaks
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-selects-dr-steven-schiff-director-fogarty-international-center-associate-director-international-research
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-radx-initiative-expands-covid-19-testing-innovation-additional-types-rapid-tests
- https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication/plain-language-nih/plain-language-getting-started-or-brushing-up/formatting-visual-clarity
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/flu-infection-study-increases-understanding-natural-immunity
- https://nih.gov/about-nih/nih-almanac/national-institute-arthritis-musculoskeletal-skin-diseases-niams
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication/plain-language-nih/plain-language-getting-started-or-brushing-up/before-you-start-writing
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/h7n9-influenza-vaccine-clinical-trials-begin
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/research-offers-clues-improved-influenza-vaccine-design
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/new-study-offers-insights-genetic-indicators-copd-risk
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication/plain-language-nih/plain-language-getting-started-or-brushing-up/formatting-visual-clarity
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/cellular-barcoding-helps-scientists-understand-behavior-stem-cells
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/will-supplements-help-your-workout-or-diet-routine
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-trial-rectal-microbicide-hiv-prevention-begins-united-states
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-continues-boost-national-covid-19-testing-capacity
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/dr-raymond-jacobson-selected-director-nih-center-scientific-review
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/candidate-malaria-vaccine-provides-lasting-protection-nih-sponsored-trials
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/nih-almanac/department-health-human-services-secretaries
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-halts-arm-clinical-trial-evaluating-potential-stroke-treatment
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/monoclonal-antibodies-crucial-fighting-emerging-infectious-diseases-say-nih-officials
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/vigorous-exercise-not-linked-increased-risk-adverse-cardiac-events-long-qt-syndrome
- https://nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication/plain-language-nih/plain-language-getting-started-or-brushing-up/connecting-your-readers

…and more — 80 pages total ([download CSV](csv/alfa__sia-r78.csv)).

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r78

### Example pages
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-clinical-trial-tuberculous-meningitis-drug-regimen-begins
- https://nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-mobilizes-national-innovation-initiative-covid-19-diagnostics
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/roadmap-guide-progress-toward-replacing-animal-use-toxicity-testing

---

## Element with orientation is not locked (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-50f3880b`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-7fbb8b20`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour  
**XPath / selector:** `{"type":"document","children":[{"type":"type","name":"html","publicId":null,"sys`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r59` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r59))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 2 instances; 2 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### Description
Element with orientation is not locked. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r59 on 2 of 3333 scanned pages (2 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour.
2. Locate the element: {"type":"document","children":[{"type":"type","name":"html","publicId":null,"sys
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r59.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/virtual-tour

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r59

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/virtual-tour

---

## First focusable element is link to main content (WCAG criterion undetermined)

**Bug ID:** `VS-9e2e2c2e`  
**Pattern ID:** `VS-aa242c2d`  
**URL:** https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour  
**XPath / selector:** `{"type":"document","children":[{"type":"type","name":"html","publicId":null,"sys`  
**WCAG SC:** _undetermined_  
**Rule:** Siteimprove Alfa — `sia-r87` ([reference](https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r87))  
**Severity:** Moderate  
**Frequency:** 2 instances; 2 of 3333 pages affected
  
**History:** first seen 2026-W29, last seen 2026-W29 (1 week)

### Description
First focusable element is link to main content. Detected by Siteimprove Alfa rule sia-r87 on 2 of 3333 scanned pages (2 instances).

### Steps to reproduce
1. Open https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour.
2. Locate the element: {"type":"document","children":[{"type":"type","name":"html","publicId":null,"sys
3. Confirm the Siteimprove Alfa finding for rule sia-r87.

### Impact
Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Affected pages
- https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/virtual-tour

### Testing environment
Automated: Siteimprove Alfa, headless Chromium (Playwright). Manual AT verification: Not captured by automated scan — requires manual testing.

### Suggested fix
See remediation guidance: https://alfa.siteimprove.com/rules/sia-r87

### Example pages
- https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour
- http://mailto:RADxInfo@nih.gov/virtual-tour