U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
November 2005
One of the most important public health issues our Nation and the world faces is the threat of a global
disease outbreak called a pandemic. No one in the world today is fully prepared for a pandemic — but
we are better prepared today than we were yesterday – and we will be better prepared tomorrow than
we are today.
This HHS Pandemic Influenza Plan provides a blueprint from which to prepare for the challenges
that lie ahead of us. Being prepared and responding effectively involves everyone: individuals,
communities, businesses, States, Federal agencies, international countries and organizations. Here at
home, we can use this Plan to create a seamless preparedness network where we are all working
together for the benefit of the American people.
In the century past, we have experienced influenza pandemics three times: as recently as 1968 and
1957 and what has been called the Great Influenza in 1918, a pandemic that killed 40-50 million
people worldwide. At some point in our nation’s future another virus will emerge with the potential
to create a global disease outbreak. History teaches us that everything we do today to prepare for that
eventuality will have many lasting benefits for the future. We will realize important advances in
healthcare, and we will be better prepared for other types of emergencies.
I am humbled by the enormity of the challenge that the global community confronts should there be
a pandemic. Public cooperation and global partnerships will be essential tools in fighting back and
creating a constant state of readiness. If together we take the steps necessary, we will be able to save
the lives of millions of people in our country and all around the world.
Mike Leavitt
Health and Human Services Secretary