Farewell to Australia’s COVID Commander: Epidemiologist Behind the Nation’s Battle Against the Virus Passes Away at 70

National Healthcare Epidemiologist who led Australia through COVID dies aged 70

Renowned Epidemiologist Passes Away

Mary-Louise McLaws, a prominent epidemiologist and trusted voice who led Australia through the COVID-19 pandemic, has sadly passed away at the age of 70 after a long illness. McLaws, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor in January 2022, died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday night, according to her husband Richard Flook. McLaws was well-cared for by the medical staff at Wolper Hospital in Woollahra, and she had received tremendous support from her friends and loved ones during her illness. Her funeral service is set to take place at Emanuel Synagogue in the following days.

A Legacy of Accomplishments

Born in Tasmania to Jewish parents on March 17, 1953, Professor Mary-Louise McLaws was a renowned epidemiologist and a professor at the University of New South Wales School of Public Health and Community Medicine. Her expertise extended globally, as she served as a World Health Organization (WHO) advisor to China and contributed to infection-control research in various countries, including Cambodia, China, Bangladesh, Mali, Indonesia, Iran, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Turkey.

In her role as the director of the Public Health Unit for the Sydney South West Area Health Service, McLaws made substantial contributions to eliminating HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. She also played a pivotal role in containing the spread of the Swine flu. However, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic that McLaws became widely known to the Australian public through her media appearances, providing expert advice on the best course of action. McLaws was also a member of the WHO Health Emergencies Program Experts Advisory Panel for Infection Prevention and Control preparedness, readiness, and response to COVID-19.

A Fierce Advocate

Not one to shy away from holding governments accountable for their pandemic responses, McLaws was vocal about the need to close the Australian border early. She was an early proponent of face mask usage, even when the idea seemed unimaginable to many. McLaws displayed unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of the Australian public and fearlessly spoke out to ensure that the necessary measures were implemented.

An Outpouring of Tributes

The news of McLaws’ illness last year garnered an outpouring of tributes from thousands of people who had been reassured by her expertise throughout the pandemic. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in the General Division during the Queen’s Birthday Honours last July. This prestigious honor acknowledged her distinguished service to medical research, particularly in the fields of epidemiology and infection prevention. Her contributions to tertiary education and health administration were also recognized.

Farewell to an Exceptional Epidemiologist

Mary-Louise McLaws leaves behind a remarkable legacy as a trusted voice and dedicated advocate for public health. Her impact will be felt not only in Australia but also globally, as she played a crucial role in guiding the nation through a challenging pandemic. Her passion for infectious disease control and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of the community have left an indelible mark.

Australia mourns the loss of this exceptional epidemiologist, grateful for her invaluable contributions and the lasting impact she has had on public health. McLaws’ dedication to her field of expertise serves as an inspiration to future generations of healthcare professionals. As the nation continues to navigate the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to reflect on her achievements and strive to uphold her legacy of prioritizing the health and safety of the population.