Donald Henderson

Donald Henderson was an influential American epidemiologist known for leading the global effort to eradicate smallpox, one of the deadliest diseases in human history. Born in 1928, he directed the World Health Organization's smallpox eradication program from 1967 until the disease's official eradication in 1980. His strategic approach involved widespread vaccination and surveillance, making it a landmark achievement in public health. Henderson's work not only saved millions of lives but also laid the groundwork for future global health initiatives. He continued to contribute to public health and bioterrorism preparedness until his passing in 2016.