Salim Abdool Karim

Slim portrait 2020

Salim Abdool Karim is a South African epidemiologist and infectious diseases specialist, renowned for his research in HIV/AIDS and COVID-19. He is a prominent figure in the global health community and has made significant contributions to the understanding and management of infectious diseases.

Early Life and Education

Salim Abdool Karim was born in South Africa. He pursued his medical degree at the University of Natal, now part of the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He later obtained a Master's degree in Epidemiology from Columbia University in the United States.

Career

Karim's career has been marked by his dedication to combating infectious diseases, particularly HIV/AIDS. He has held various academic and research positions, including serving as the Director of the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA). He is also a Professor of Global Health at Columbia University.

HIV/AIDS Research

Karim's work in HIV/AIDS has been groundbreaking. He has led numerous studies that have advanced the understanding of the disease and its transmission. His research has been instrumental in developing strategies for HIV prevention and treatment, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

COVID-19 Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Karim played a crucial role in South Africa's response to the virus. He served as the chair of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on COVID-19, providing guidance on public health measures and policies to mitigate the spread of the virus.

Awards and Recognition

Karim has received numerous awards for his contributions to medical science and public health. These include the Order of Mapungubwe, South Africa's highest honor, and the John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award.

Personal Life

Karim is married to Quarraisha Abdool Karim, who is also a prominent HIV/AIDS researcher. Together, they have collaborated on various research projects and have significantly impacted the field of infectious diseases.

See Also

• HIV/AIDS in South Africa
• COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa
• Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa