Case #1053.0

Swine Flu Scare in America (A)

Publication Date: January 01, 1993
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Abstract:
In 1976, the CDC received samples of an unknown pathogen from Fort Dix, a New Jersey Army training center. After extensive testing, it was discovered that the sample was swine flu, which had not been reported in persons "out of touch with pigs" since the late 1920's. CDC director Dr. David Spencer wrote an "action memorandum" detailing how the Federal government should proceed.

Learning Objective:
This case details not only the follow--up epidemiological procedures, but also the response of the press, which equated the swine--flu with the highly fatal 1918 influenza pandemic.

Other Details

Case Author:
Richard Neustadt and Dr. Harvey Fineberg
Faculty Lead:
Richard Neustadt and Dr. Harvey Fineberg
Pages (incl. exhibits):
21
Setting:
United States
Language:
English