(L-R) Drs. J. Donald Millar, William H. Foege, and J. Michael Lane read of smallpox’ worldwide eradication in 1980. (Credit: CDC Public Health Image Library).
de Beaumont mourns the passing of Dr. William H. Foege, a public health leader whose work shaped modern disease prevention. Dr. Foege was instrumental in the global effort to eradicate smallpox in the 1960s and 1970s, helping demonstrate how vaccines, used strategically and collaboratively, could stop transmission even in the most challenging settings. His contributions to the World Health Organization’s smallpox program reflected a practical, evidence-driven, community-oriented approach and a belief that coordinated action could achieve lasting public health gains.
Throughout his career, Dr. Foege remained focused on strengthening public health systems and supporting the people who carry out this work every day. As director of the CDC from 1977-1983, he modernized the organization by addressing issues beyond infectious disease that affect the health and safety of populations. Later, as co-founder of the Task Force for Global Health, he served as a mentor, educator, and advocate for the field, championing the importance of equity and partnership and influencing generations of public health professionals.
“Dr. Bill Foege inspired people across the world to act on behalf of health for all and shaped our understanding of how to address the major causes of morbidity and mortality,” said David A. Ross, ScD, former President and CEO of the Task Force for Global Health and Vice Chair of the de Beaumont Foundation Board of Directors. “He practiced the art of building the partnerships and coalitions needed to improve dramatically childhood immunization throughout the world, conquer disabling infectious diseases, and promote attention to preventable threats to health. His contributions to global health have translated into millions of healthy, thriving lives.”
We extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Foege’s family, colleagues, and all who worked alongside him, and we join our colleagues at the American Public Health Association, the Task Force for Global Health, and The Formula in remembering his legacy.
