Wu Lien-teh

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COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Groepsfoto van de heren Jan van L. dr. Wu Lien Teh en professor De Langen Tandjong Priok Batavia. TMnr 60010953

Wu Lien-teh (10 March 1879 – 21 January 1960) was a Malaysian-born Chinese physician and public health innovator, best known for his pioneering work in controlling the pneumonic plague outbreak in Manchuria from 1910 to 1911. He was the first medical student of Chinese descent to study at the University of Cambridge and later became a leading figure in the development of modern medical practices in China.

Early Life and Education

Wu Lien-teh was born in Penang, Malaysia, to a family of Chinese immigrants. He excelled academically and won a scholarship to study medicine at the University of Cambridge in England, where he graduated with high honors. After completing his studies, Wu returned to Malaysia briefly before moving to China to contribute to its medical modernization.

Career

In 1910, Wu was appointed by the Qing Dynasty government to lead efforts to combat a deadly outbreak of pneumonic plague in Manchuria. This plague was highly contagious and had a near 100% mortality rate if untreated. Wu implemented a series of innovative public health measures, including the use of quarantine, travel restrictions, and the creation of a special pneumonic plague hospital.

One of Wu's most significant contributions was his development of a simple but effective face mask made of cotton and gauze, which is considered the precursor to the modern surgical mask. He also organized the burning of infected houses and belongings, despite opposition from local communities and some foreign physicians. His efforts significantly reduced the spread of the plague, saving countless lives.

Wu's success in Manchuria established his reputation as a leading public health expert. He went on to hold several important positions, including the directorship of the National Quarantine Service and the presidency of the China Medical Association. He was also instrumental in founding several medical schools and hospitals in China.

Legacy

Wu Lien-teh's work had a profound impact on public health in China and worldwide. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1935 for his work on plague control. Although he did not win, his nomination was a significant recognition of his contributions to medical science.

Wu was also a prolific writer, authoring numerous articles and books on public health and medicine. His autobiography, "Plague Fighter: The Autobiography of a Modern Chinese Physician," provides valuable insights into his life and the challenges of combating infectious diseases in the early 20th century.

Wu Lien-teh's legacy continues to be honored in various ways. In Malaysia, his birthplace, Penang, has named a street after him. His life and work are also celebrated in China, where he is remembered as a pioneer of modern medicine and public health.

Death

Wu Lien-teh passed away on 21 January 1960 in Penang, Malaysia. His death marked the loss of one of the most influential figures in the history of public health and medicine.