In 1918, the Spanish Flu ravaged the globe, killing 50 million people as it passed from continent to continent.
Today, another dangerous virus threatens to pass from birds to humans — presenting yet another threat to the world.
The H5N1 Bird Flu has today's scientists on edge. Some say it's only a matter of time before the virus mutates, recreating the 1918 pandemic. Others doubt the likelihood of any real danger.
However, all experts agree that nobody is fully prepared for the consequences of a global outbreak.
Race Against the Killer Flu documents efforts around the world to isolate and fight the deadly virus. Virologists and epidemiologists travel from rural Asian chicken farms to advanced, biosafety laboratories.
We find out what's being done to protect people through the world of preventative science.
The documentary goes deep into the actual H5N1 virus with advanced computer modeling to find out what makes this particular flu so deadly.
It uncovers historical film archives that reveal how society breaks down when pandemics strike.
And it poses the question: can H5N1 really kill millions? Or is it mere hype?