CDC flu research pioneer Nancy Cox dies at 77

Nancy Cox, a longtime CDC veteran, passed away at age 77 after battling glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer.

Cox led the agency's influenza division for 22 years, expanding the team from a modest branch of 14 staff to a robust division of more than 100 scientists and public‑health professionals.

She also served as director of the World Health Organization’s Collaborating Center for Influenza Surveillance, Epidemiology and Control at the CDC, helping to coordinate global monitoring of seasonal flu strains and the detection of emerging pandemic threats.

Colleagues remember her for both scientific expertise and diplomatic skill, noting that she was instrumental in linking health agencies worldwide to improve flu preparedness.