Renowned scientist William Foege, who played a pivotal role in the global effort to eradicate smallpox, passed away at the age of 89 last Saturday. Foege, a champion of vaccine science, led the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Smallpox Eradication Program in the 1970s. His contributions were instrumental in the official eradication of smallpox in 1980, a disease that had previously claimed the lives of one in three infected individuals. Since 1977, there have been no new cases of smallpox reported, marking a significant milestone in public health history.
Foege’s impact on global health extended beyond his work on smallpox. He went on to lead the CDC and became a senior medical adviser and fellow at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. In recognition of his contributions, former President Barack Obama awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2012.
A vocal advocate for vaccination, Foege collaborated with epidemiologist Larry Brilliant in a 2013 article in Scientific American, highlighting the progress in eliminating polio. While polio remains a candidate for eradication, Foege’s unwavering commitment to public health and vaccination efforts has left a lasting legacy.
In 2025, Foege joined other former CDC directors in speaking out against the policies of then-Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Their concerns were outlined in a New York Times op-ed, expressing unease about the direction of public health initiatives under Kennedy’s leadership.
Task Force for Global Health CEO Patrick O’Carroll paid tribute to Foege, describing him as an inspirational figure whose vision and compassion inspired generations of public health workers. Foege’s legacy continues to inspire optimism and drive efforts to create a better world through public health initiatives.
Foege’s contributions to global health and vaccine science serve as a reminder of the impact that dedicated individuals can have on shaping the future of public health. His legacy will live on in the continued fight against infectious diseases and the promotion of vaccination efforts worldwide.
