Contagion: The BBC Four Pandemic

Running from September 2017 to December 2018, the BBC Four Pandemic app was the largest science experiment of its kind powered by citizens. Exploring the ambitious vision of the scientists behind the app, Contagion: The BBC Four Pandemic leaves viewers with a deeper understanding of the app’s impact on the world around them.

In an attempt to track the spread of highly infectious flu across the UK, scientists conducted research that is more important than ever. The results of this experiment are explored in the documentary, revealing a method that has since been regarded as a new gold standard for pandemic research.

Following patient zero, Hannah Fry, the documentary explores the extent to which robust data is essential for scientists working in pandemic prevention. By combining science with smart technology, researchers demonstrate how a simple smartphone app can transform the tracking of disease spread, and just how significant a difference citizens can make.