Dr Leo Kaprio

1966-1985

Leo A Kaprio was born in Finland in 1918. Following an interruption due to the Second World War, he finally completed his education with a doctorate in public health in 1955.

After more than a decade of work, the European Region was officially declared smallpox free in 1977 during his tenure.

The eradication of smallpox is considered one of the greatest achievements in public health.