Centers For Disease Control hosts 1918 Influenza Pandemic Commemoration Activities

By Samantha Mandel
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

This year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is commemorating the 1918 influenza pandemic and the many public health accomplishments that have occurred over the past 100 years.

Massachusetts had been drained of physicians and nurses due to calls for military service, and no longer had enough personnel to meet the civilian demand for healthcare during the 1918 flu pandemic. Governor McCall asked every able-bodied person across the state with medical training to offer their aid in fighting the epidemic. Boston Red Cross volunteers assembled gauze influenza masks for use at hard-hit, Camp Devens in Massachusetts.The centenary presents an opportunity to emphasize the continued threat influenza viruses pose, and our vital role in maintaining our nation’s capability to prepare for and respond to an influenza pandemic.

Much of the 1918 flu pandemic can be related to the conditions of WWI. I learned that the U.S. WWI Centennial Commission is also remembering the events of WW1 this year.

Throughout 2018, CDC will highlight 100 years of public health achievements in flu preparedness and response, including future threats and advancements that are needed. Upcoming events include a symposium with Emory University on May 7th, 2018.

The symposium, 100 years of Influenza Pandemics and Practice: 1918-2018 will be a one-day event at the Rollins School of Public Health Auditorium. 100 years after the 1918 pandemic. Info can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemic-resources/1918-commemoration/agenda.htm

Experts from academia and government will convene to discuss and debate current pandemic influenza threats, and the future of pandemic preparedness and influenza prevention and control.

The event will be webcast from 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/rsphweb

Historical facts and a timeline, plus partner resources and information, can be found at our 1918 commemoration website:
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemic-resources/1918-commemoration/partner-resources.htm.