House on Fire: The Fight to Eradicate Smallpox by William H. Foege

Smallpox, the most feared and infectious disease in human history, plagued humanity for thousands of years before it was eradicated in 1980. Tackling this seemingly unstoppable enemy was no easy feat, yet one man, Dr. William H. Foege, rose to the challenge and played an integral role in transforming smallpox from a killing disease to a distant memory.

In the book House on Fire: The Fight to Eradicate Smallpox, William H. Foege recounts his experiences working for the World Health Organization (WHO) to help eradicate the disease. His narrative recounts an incredible story of courage and determination as he navigated a complex web of politics, relations, finances, and global health regulations.

Foege served as the Director of the Smallpox Eradication Program and Chief Health Officer of the WHO, making him a key figure in developing the strategy to eradicate smallpox. He was driven by the belief that global health and social justice were intimately intertwined, believing that the elimination of deadly disease was only the first step to true, lasting health and prosperity. He helped develop a holistic strategy to the eradication effort that focused on building strong foundations on the ground, empowering local workers and creating trusting relationships with the communities who needed their intervention the most.

Foege and the WHO smallpox team understood that a “blanket approach” was not enough; rather, they identified pockets of smallpox in different areas, including Pakistan and Somalia, and tailored strategies accordingly. They worked tirelessly to stimulate immunization efforts in the field and develop effective surveillance systems, ensuring that each and every case of smallpox would be identified and tracked. Ultimately, the team was successful in driving down the incidence of smallpox and getting the virus under control.

Foege and the eradication team faced many challenges along the way, including significant financial and political barriers, opposition from local communities, shortages in supplies, and changing conditions on the ground. In particular, Foege reveals the struggles he faced in navigating the world of international health diplomacy, as well as the grueling journeys and chaotic fieldwork he endured.

Foege also sheds light on the victorious moments and breakthroughs that made victory possible—including an unforgettable moment when the team finally declared success in the “total eradication” of smallpox on the World Health Day in April 1980.

House on Fire is an inspiring tale of one man’s vision and unwavering commitment to health and social justice. It is an incredible story of courage and determination, as well as a testament to the power of human resilience and perseverance even in the face of daunting odds. Smallpox is just one of many diseases that still threaten humanity, but Foege’s example offers a beacon of hope and serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when we come together with a common goal.