Global Center for Health Security

- Our Expertise Overview
- Why Nebraska?
  Nebraska’s difference is an all-star, all-volunteer team that dedicated itself to being ready for any biocontainment crisis at any time.
- Leadership
  The Global Center is led by experts in biopreparedness and high-consequence infections research, education and clinical care.
- Scholars
  Our scholars represent the pinnacle of health security expertise and are integral to advancing the mission of the GCHS in the domains of clinical care, operational response, research and development, and training in health security, and emergency response. GCHS scholars play a critical role by contributing to strategic priorities, shaping initiatives, and advancing the GCHS’s global leadership.
- Affiliates
  Our affiliates are innovative experts collaborating to advance global health security.
- C-STARS
  C-STARS, the Center for Sustainment of Trauma Readiness Skills- Omaha is a collaboration between UNMC, Nebraska Medicine, and the Air Force Research Laboratory’s School of Aerospace Medicine. C-STARS Omaha works closely with UNMC’s Global Center for Health Security, iEXCEL, and the Nebraska Biocontainment Unit to take advantage of the medical center’s capabilities and expertise in biopreparedness training and research.
- Our Team
  Our team consists of a variety of professionals providing support and project management to further the Global Center for Health Security’s mission.
- Domains Overview
- Clinical Operations
  The Global Center for Health Security is the premier U.S. institution for management of high-consequence infections. Further, our clinical capabilities include biological, chemical, burn, and radiation domains.
- Education & Training
  Our expertise is now sought worldwide and officially sanctioned by the U.S. government. The GCHS is the home base to the national Training, Simulation, and Quarantine Center and the Nebraska Biocontainment Unit.
- Research
  The GCHS has laser-focused existing work by our leading scientists in fields like chemical weapons, drug discovery and public health.
- International Partnerships & Innovation
  The GCHS tackles the most pressing problems in emerging infectious diseases through international partnerships and innovation.
- Programs Overview
- Core Capabilities
  Learn about the GCHS’ 4 core capabilities: Emerging Pathogens Lab , Nebraska Biocontainment Unit , the National Quarantine Unit, and deployable teams.
- Core Programs
  The GCHS works with multiple core programs to enhance our capabilities to respond effectively to public health challenges.
- Partnerships
  The GCHS partners with many outside organizations to strengthen our commitment to addressing global health challenges through research and innovation.
- Associated Groups & Programs
  Learn more about the impactful programs led by GCHS leadership, scholar, and affiliates.
- Academic Programs
  Explore GCHS academic programs which include the Health Security Fellowship and the Biological Defense and Health Security program.
- Health Emergencies Overview
- Outbreaks to Watch
  Find information about emerging pathogens, diseases and outbreaks from around the world. Stay updated on the most recent information on worldwide global health and emerging pathogens outbreaks.
- Measles
  The GCHS is currently monitoring measles cases. This page provides information, resources, and news.
- Emerging Respiratory Infections
  Explore current respiratory infections such as Influenza, Whopping Cough, RSV and more.
- HPAI H5N1- Avian Influenza
  Learn more about the current worldwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1- Avian Influenza and explore resources, news, webinars, and our unofficial map.
- Mpox
  The Global Center for Health Security is currently monitoring the spread of mpox. Learn more by viewing our resources.
- COVID-19
  Explore our COVID-19 page for recent news, resources, manuals, and playbooks. Biweekly overviews of new data and developments presented by James V. Lawler, MD, MPH, FIDSA can now be found on the Health Emergencies page.
The Transmission
- News Overview
- Events
  Find scheduled and past events involving the Global Center for Health Security.
- Annual Reports
  Find annual reports for our center and several of our programs.
- Videos
  Explore our videos.

Emerging Respiratory Infections

Explore this page to learn more about current emerging respiratory infections and diseases.

Current Emerging Respiratory Infections:

Influenza (Flu)

According to the CDC, Flu "is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year."

Whopping Cough

According to the CDC, Whooping Cough "is a respiratory illness caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. The disease is only found in humans. Whooping cough bacteria attach to the cilia (tiny, hair-like extensions) that line part of the upper respiratory system. The bacteria release toxins (poisons), which damage the cilia and cause airways to swell. Babies younger than 1 year old are at greatest risk for getting whooping cough and having severe complications from it."

COVID-19

Explore our COVID-19 page for resources, news, and more information.

Resources

Influenza

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

Whooping Cough

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

Updates | Situational Reports

Influenza

Whooping Cough Deaths Rise in U.S. as Surge in Infections Continues

December 30, 2025

Flu is surging nationwide, and doctors say we’re nowhere near the peak

December 30, 2025

Flu cases are surging and rates will likely get worse, new CDC data shows

December 30, 2025

New flu strain putting severe pressure on healthcare across Europe, says WHO

December 17, 2025