“Unmasking the Expertise of Epidemiologist Mary-Louise McLaws: Shaping the Path to Public Health Success”

Mary-Louise McLaws, Renowned Epidemiologist and COVID-19 Advisor, Passes Away at 70

By Virginia Trioli | Updated 13 Aug 2023, 12:32pm

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, when uncertainty and fear gripped the nation, epidemiologist and infection control expert Professor Mary-Louise McLaws emerged as a trusted voice of reason and compassion in the lives of many Australians. Known for her calming presence and melodic tones, McLaws provided important health advice and guidance during the darkest days of the pandemic. Unfortunately, McLaws passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 70 after a battle with brain cancer.

A Trusted Authority and Respected International Figure

Prior to her role as a beloved figure in Australia’s COVID-19 response, McLaws had already made a significant impact on the field of disease control and infection prevention. She collaborated with Beijing to prevent the global spread of SARS, worked with the World Health Organization to identify and address hospital-led infections, and played a pivotal role in training public health students and mentoring PhD candidates. McLaws’s expertise and dedication earned her the admiration and love of her students and colleagues alike.

A Life of Achievement

Born in Tasmania in 1953, Mary-Louise McLaws was a natural rebel and academic. She dreamed of becoming an astronaut but ultimately pursued a Bachelor of Science degree and postgraduate studies in public health at the University of Sydney. McLaws’s passion for infection control led her to develop the first surveillance system for healthcare-associated infections. Throughout her career, she made significant contributions to patient safety, disease prevention, and infection control measures.

A Voice of Reason during the Pandemic

When COVID-19 struck and brought the world to its knees, McLaws’s years of research and evidence-based policy work prepared her to step into a public-facing role. As a member of several World Health Organization advisory groups, McLaws provided measured and unemotional insights into the complex challenges posed by the virus. She became a trusted source of information and inspiration for countless Australians.

Despite McLaws’s typically sanguine temperament, she did not shy away from voicing criticism when necessary. She highlighted the slow vaccine procurement by the federal government and the slow response of the New South Wales government in controlling the spread of the virus. By expressing her concerns, McLaws ensured that her perspectives had a significant impact on public health policies.

Legacy of Compassion and Expertise

The passing of Mary-Louise McLaws leaves a void in the field of public health and epidemiology. Her legacy does not just encompass her extensive research and work in controlling the spread of diseases but also her dedication to translating her knowledge into teaching and guiding communities towards safe public health practices.

For many, McLaws’s enduring presence will be remembered as a kind, calm, and wise figure who provided solace during the most challenging times. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues, and the countless individuals whose lives she touched.