Influenza Center of Excellence & WHO Collaborating Center

World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Influenza

St. Jude is one of only six Collaborating Centers operating under the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS). Our center focuses exclusively on the threat to humans from influenza viruses of animals.

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Center of Excellence for Influenza Research and Response

St. Jude is distinguished as a Center of Excellence for Influenza Research and Response (CEIRR) by the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. As one of six U.S. research institutions selected for the CEIRR network, St. Jude serves as a hub of basic and clinical research aimed at understanding and responding to influenza.

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Fighting flu for the world

Flu infections are a leading cause of illness and death worldwide. During an average flu season, the virus is linked to approximately 250,000-500,000 deaths and 3 to 5 million cases of severe illness worldwide. St. Jude researchers and physicians study how new influenza strains emerge in humans and cause disease.

An international research network

Our research leadership, faculty, physicians, and trainees provide a highly-specialized nexus of expertise to drive innovative influenza research. In addition, the experts at St. Jude work closely with collaborators at partner institutions and government agencies around the globe, expanding our reach and research capabilities.

A legacy of distinction

The St. Jude influenza research program began in 1968 with the recruitment of renowned virologist Robert G. Webster, PhD. Under his leadership and with the subsequent recruitment of additional top influenza experts, the program flourished. Our research has provided important breakthroughs in several major influenza outbreaks over the years, leading to our designation as a World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Influenza and an NIH Center of Excellence for Influenza Research and Surveillance.