House on fire: The fight to eradicate smallpox

Abstract

Bill Foege’s “House on Fire” recounts the extraordinary story of the global eradication of smallpox, a triumph of public health that stands as a testament to human determination and international cooperation. Foege, a pioneer in global health, details the innovative strategies and dedicated efforts that ultimately led to the elimination of this deadly disease. This firsthand account offers invaluable insights into the nature of this monumental achievement and provides lessons applicable to tackling the global health challenges of the 21st century. The book serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of collaboration and the potential for achieving seemingly insurmountable goals.