- Outbreak (1995)
- Contagion (2011)
- Ebola: The Doctors' Story (2015)
- Pandemic: How to Prevent an Outbreak (2020)
- The Spanish Flu: The Forgotten Fallen (2009)
- The Flu That Killed 50 Million (2018)
- The Age of AIDS (2006)
- The Virus Hunters (2005)
- Ebola: Inside the Deadly Outbreak (2014)
- Zika: A Global Threat (2016)
In the face of global health crises, documentaries about epidemics offer not just a window into the past but also a mirror to our present and future. These films delve into the science, politics, and human stories behind some of the most devastating outbreaks in history. From the Spanish Flu to the more recent Ebola and Zika virus outbreaks, this curated list provides a comprehensive look at how humanity has battled against invisible enemies, offering both educational value and a stark reminder of our vulnerability.

Outbreak (1995)
Description: Although a fictional thriller, this film's depiction of a deadly virus outbreak has been noted for its scientific accuracy and is often referenced in discussions about pandemics.
Fact: The film was inspired by real events like the Reston Ebola outbreak, and its plot has been used in educational settings to discuss epidemic response.


Contagion (2011)
Description: While not a documentary, this film's realistic portrayal of a global viral outbreak has been praised for its accuracy and is often used as a reference for understanding pandemics.
Fact: The film was consulted by experts from the CDC, and its plot eerily predicted many aspects of the COVID-19 outbreak.


Ebola: The Doctors' Story (2015)
Description: A firsthand account of the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, focusing on the doctors and nurses who risked their lives to combat the disease.
Fact: The documentary was filmed in Sierra Leone, one of the hardest-hit countries, and features real-life footage from the Ebola treatment centers.


Pandemic: How to Prevent an Outbreak (2020)
Description: A Netflix series that follows the efforts of global health organizations to prevent the next major outbreak, focusing on various infectious diseases.
Fact: The series was released just as the world was grappling with the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, making its content eerily timely.


The Spanish Flu: The Forgotten Fallen (2009)
Description: This documentary revisits the 1918 Spanish Flu, focusing on the personal stories of those affected and the societal impact of the disease.
Fact: It includes rare footage and personal accounts from survivors, providing a poignant look at the human side of the epidemic.


The Flu That Killed 50 Million (2018)
Description: This documentary explores the 1918 Spanish Flu, one of the deadliest pandemics in history, detailing its impact on society and the medical response at the time.
Fact: The film uses archival footage and interviews with historians to recreate the atmosphere of the time. It was produced by the BBC, known for its high-quality historical documentaries.


The Age of AIDS (2006)
Description: This two-part documentary series traces the history of the AIDS epidemic from its origins in Africa to its global spread and the ongoing battle against it.
Fact: It features interviews with key figures like Dr. Anthony Fauci and provides an in-depth look at the political and social response to AIDS.


The Virus Hunters (2005)
Description: Follows scientists as they track down and study viruses in remote areas, providing insight into how new diseases emerge and spread.
Fact: The film was shot in locations like the Congo Basin and includes interviews with virologists who have dedicated their lives to understanding viruses.


Ebola: Inside the Deadly Outbreak (2014)
Description: This documentary provides an inside look at the 2014 Ebola outbreak, detailing the response from medical teams and the international community.
Fact: It was filmed during the height of the outbreak, offering a raw and unfiltered view of the crisis.


Zika: A Global Threat (2016)
Description: Focuses on the Zika virus outbreak, exploring its origins, spread, and the global health response to this emerging threat.
Fact: The documentary includes interviews with scientists who were at the forefront of Zika research, offering insights into the virus's potential long-term effects.
