Tang Fei-fan

Tang Fei-fan

Born	1897
Birth place	China
Died	1958
Nationality	Chinese
Known for	Discovery of the Japanese encephalitis virus

Tang Fei-fan (1897–1958) was a prominent Chinese virologist and microbiologist, best known for his discovery of the Japanese encephalitis virus. His work significantly advanced the understanding of viral diseases in Asia and contributed to the development of vaccines that have saved countless lives.

Early Life and Education

Tang Fei-fan was born in 1897 in China. Details about his early education are sparse, but it is known that he pursued higher education in the field of microbiology and virology, which were burgeoning fields of study during his time.

Career

Tang began his career at the National Central University in China, where he focused on the study of viral diseases that were prevalent in the region. His work was instrumental in identifying and understanding the transmission and pathology of various viral infections.

Discovery of Japanese Encephalitis Virus

In the 1930s, Tang Fei-fan made his most significant contribution to science by discovering the Japanese encephalitis virus. This virus is a leading cause of viral encephalitis in Asia, and Tang's work laid the foundation for the development of effective vaccines. His research involved isolating the virus and studying its transmission vectors, primarily mosquitoes, which helped in formulating public health strategies to control outbreaks.

Contributions to Virology

Tang's contributions to virology extend beyond his discovery of the Japanese encephalitis virus. He was involved in various research projects that explored the nature of viral infections and their impact on human health. His work was characterized by a rigorous scientific approach and a commitment to improving public health outcomes.

Legacy

Tang Fei-fan's legacy is marked by his pioneering work in virology, which has had a lasting impact on the field. His discovery of the Japanese encephalitis virus not only advanced scientific understanding but also led to practical applications in the form of vaccines and public health policies. Tang's work continues to be a reference point for researchers studying viral diseases in Asia and around the world.

Also see

• Japanese encephalitis
• Virology
• Microbiology
• Academia Sinica
• National Central University