The "Bird Flu" (2005)

The Simpsons has earned quite the reputation for seemingly predicting the future. It’s actually a bit of a meme at this point, with fans pointing out how many things in the real world appear to have been "predicted" by the show, sometimes years in advance. While some of these predictions are purely coincidental or the result of broad satire, others do seem oddly prescient.

The "Bird Flu" (2005)

• What happened: In "Bart on the Road" (1999), a scene shows a mysterious "flu" that causes widespread panic. While the flu isn't specifically named, it's clear that the show was hinting at an avian flu or similar virus.
• Reality: In 2005, the Bird Flu (H5N1) became a major health concern globally. It primarily affected birds but was capable of infecting humans, leading to fears of a potential pandemic. The outbreak was a precursor to the kind of panic and global concern that the Simpsons predicted.