Issues

From 1918 to 1919, a lethal strain of influenza infected one third  of the world’s population, killing an estimated 50 million people.  It crippled economies and created social unrest and political instability in many regions.  

Since that time, urbanization, international travel, poverty, and global warming  have increased the likelihood of a modern pandemic.  Thankfully, preparation, education, and the swift action of the international community can mitigate the economic damage of an infectious disease and spare millions of lives. Groups such as the World Health Organization are helping governments develop early warning alert and response programs to combat diseases with pandemic potential.