History of 1918 Flu Pandemic
Read about the 1918 influenza pandemic and progress made in preparedness and response.
What CDC Does
CDC works year-round on global control and prevention of flu, and pandemic preparedness and response.
Are we prepared?
Learn about advancements in CDC research and pandemic response over the past 100 years.
Message from Principal Deputy Director
Anne Schuchat, MD (RADM, USPHS)
For more than 70 years, CDC has used its scientific expertise and resources to address the continuing threat and burden of influenza. The 1918 pandemic, and other recent flu pandemics, not only illustrate the threat of disease but the incredible strides made in our medical and scientific infrastructure. Today we have tools to detect, prevent, diagnose, and treat disease; clarify dynamic circumstances of pandemics; and save lives. CDC marks the 100-year commemoration in memory of the lives lost, with gratitude for the progress made, and in recognition of the additional preparation needed for future emerging threats.
1918 Pandemic Video
Special Features
Ask a CDC Scientist: Dr. Terrence Tumpey and the Reconstruction of the 1918 Pandemic Virus
Featured Pandemic Flu Fighter
Dr. Terrence Tumpey is a microbiologist and chief of the Immunology and Pathogenesis Branch (IPB) in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Influenza Division. He’s perhaps best known for his groundbreaking work reconstructing the 1918 pandemic influenza virus.
Additional Resources
CDC’s 1918 commemoration campaign materials are available to assist partners in communicating about the impact of the 1918 influenza pandemic.
- Page last reviewed: May 24, 2018
- Page last updated: May 24, 2018
- Content source:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD)
- Page maintained by: Office of the Associate Director for Communication, Digital Media Branch, Division of Public Affairs