An influenza pandemic occurs when a novel influenza virus causes a worldwide outbreak of disease with a very high attack rate. One of the deadliest pandemics on record was the 1918 Pandemic—commonly referred to as the Spanish Flu. Another, more recent example is the 2009 H1N1 (“swine flu”) pandemic. Influenza pandemics have been a recurring phenomenon, and public health agencies serve a crucial role in preparing for and mitigating their effects.

ASTHO works with public health agencies to highlight the successes in responding to and preventing seasonal influenza, shares strategies across jurisdictions, and increases coordination and collaboration between public health, pharmacies, and diverse healthcare provider organizations.

Latest Influenza Resources

Healthcare worker's hands putting a bandaid on a child's arm after a vaccination shot. ASTHO Health Policy Update banner in the lower-left
history_eduBlog

Evidence-Based Policies Reduce Flu-Related Illness and Death

Learn More
Public Health Review Morning Edition logo
podcastsNewscast

Episode 249: New Flu Vaccine Polling

Learn More
Hand of a gloved medical professional holding a flu vaccine ampoule, syringe is removing some of the vaccine
history_eduBlog

Flu Activity Rising: It’s Time to Get the Vaccine!

Learn More
Mortar and pestle in the foreground, out-of-focus pharmacist visible in the background
history_eduBlog

Pharmacies Are Critical to Pandemic Planning, Not Just Response

Learn More
Hand of a gloved medical professional holding a flu vaccine ampoule, syringe is removing some of the vaccine
history_eduBlog

States Consider Expanding Scope of Flu Vaccine Policies

Learn More
Open rural road with 2021 and an arrow forward painted on it
history_eduBlog

Public Health Policy Issues to Watch in 2021

Learn More
history_eduBlog

Emphasizing Seasonal Flu Vaccination Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

Learn More
Healthcare worker giving a vaccine injection to a young girl
history_eduBlog

How States are Handling School Vaccination Requirements in a Pandemic

Learn More