Birth Anniversary of Louis Pasteur, Architect of Modern Immunity and an Inspiration for the Vaccine Congress Mission

December 27 marks the birth anniversary of Louis Pasteur, a scientist whose name is inseparably linked with vaccination, immunity, prevention, and public health. Born on December 27, 1822, in France, Pasteur revolutionized modern medicine by establishing the germ theory of disease and developing the first laboratory-based vaccines—a scientific path that today forms the foundation of discussions and policy directions at the Vaccine and Vaccination Congress.

Pasteur’s achievements extended far beyond laboratory discoveries. By refuting the theory of spontaneous generation, proving the role of microorganisms in disease, and introducing pasteurization, he demonstrated that science could directly save human lives. His discovery of pathogen attenuation and the development of vaccines against diseases such as anthrax and rabies laid the scientific foundations of modern immunology and vaccine development.

The pinnacle of this legacy occurred in 1885 with the successful treatment of Joseph Meister, a child bitten by a rabid dog—an event that not only marked a turning point in medical history but also led to the establishment of the Pasteur Institute, which remains a global pillar of biomedical research, education, and response to biological threats.

More than a century later, Pasteur’s birthday is commemorated in a world where pandemic preparedness has become a core component of global health security. From novel mRNA vaccines to artificial intelligence–based disease surveillance systems, today’s advances are a direct continuation of the scientific path Pasteur initiated—one grounded in evidence, prevention, and preparedness. These same principles lie at the heart of the scientific and strategic agenda of the Vaccine and Vaccination Congress.

In Iran, Pasteur’s scientific legacy continues through institutions such as the Pasteur Institute of Iran and the Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute. With nearly a century of experience in research and production of human and veterinary vaccines, the Razi Institute has played a vital role in strengthening national health security, vaccine self-sufficiency, and effective response to public health emergencies.

The birth anniversary of Louis Pasteur is not merely a remembrance of a great scientist; it is a reminder of a fundamental principle:

• Health is the outcome of preparedness, science, and trust in the scientific method.
• A principle that the Vaccine and Vaccination Congress seeks to advance by bringing together scientists, policymakers, and vaccine developers toward a safer future.