China Mourns Loss of Two Renowned Epidemiologists in Fight Against Pandemics
On October 27, 2023, Beijing lost two renowned epidemiologists. Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CCDC) announced that Fu Qiang, Chief Epidemiologist, died at the age of 60 due to an illness without effective treatment. In accordance with Wu’s previous wishes, his funeral was a simple one, without celebration.
28 October 2023
Fu Qiang made significant contributions in the fight against SARS in 2003 and in national HIV/AIDS prevention and control work around the turn of the century. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Fu has worked tirelessly to combat epidemics from 2020 to 2022 as CCDC’s chief epidemiologist.
Another epidemiologist who passed away was Wu Zunqi, also aged 60, who was the director of the Epidemiology Division at China's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. He had previously worked on SARS control during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The three years of the epidemic have taken a toll on many netizens, turning their hair from black to white as they reflect on the sacrifices made by frontline workers like Dr. Wu and Fu Qiang. As a tribute to these fallen heroes, Weibo users shared heartfelt messages expressing their gratitude for their dedication and service.
One user said, "Truly burst into tears, seeing people share that they attended Professor Wu's class in March. Everyone is saying how kind and approachable he is after the class." Another expressed a similar sentiment: "After the outbreak, Dr. Nong's voice became recognized by everyone. Up to now, he continued to make sense and sound science-based."
In accordance with Wu’s wishes, his funeral was simple, without any celebrations. Despite this, civilians gathered at the entrance of Anhui Medical University, Wu’s alma mater, to pay their respects.
Dr. Nong, another epidemiologist, has also been widely admired for his dedication and scientific accuracy. A retired teacher named Guo said, "I can't remember what his life was like; it seemed as if he spent all his time working."
Some netizens expressed their concern over the mental health of frontline workers who have been under immense pressure during the pandemic. They called for mandatory rest periods to be put on the agenda, urging talented individuals like Dr. Wu and Fu Qiang to contribute more for over ten or twenty years.
One user, in memory of Dr. Ning Lu, accurately explained what a national treasure without equivalent means. They expressed their hope that those who slander Dr. Ning will have some conscience, such as yesterday's writer defaming him with no apology. The user emphasized that the contributions of Dr. Ning far exceed those who slander him.
In conclusion, these two epidemiologists, Wu Zunqi and Fu Qiang, had