A statue commemorating the 30th anniversary of the eradication of smallpox is being unveiled today in front of the World Health Organization (WHO) headquarters by the Director-General of the World Health Organization, Dr Margaret Chan.

Prior to eradication, smallpox epidemics were common in many countries, leaving death, blindness and disfigurement behind. The eradication of this devastating, infectious disease has been called one of the greatest achievements in public health.

A reminder of the value of smallpox eradication

"The eradication of smallpox shows that with strong mutual resolve, teamwork and an international spirit of solidarity, ambitious global public health goals can be attained," says Dr Margaret Chan, Director-General, WHO.

"The statue stands as a reminder of the significance of such an achievement, and shows the power of international health cooperation to do great and lasting good."

The cast bronze and stone statue depicts four persons, one of whom is a girl about to be vaccinated in…