Taiwan marks 160th anniversary of tropical medicine pioneer Sir Patrick Manson's arrival

Kaohsiung, Taiwan, marked the 160th anniversary of Sir Patrick Manson's arrival with a commemorative event and plaque unveiling at Qijin Hospital. Manson, often called the "Father of Tropical Medicine," first came to Taiwan in 1866 at the age of 21, serving as a customs medical officer in Qi Hou (now Qijin) and working at a clinic established by Dr. James Mackay.

During his time in Qijin, Manson began his keen observations of tropical diseases and vector-borne illnesses. His later groundbreaking work, which confirmed mosquitoes as intermediate hosts for filariasis and proposed early hypotheses on mosquito transmission of malaria and dengue fever, laid the foundation for modern tropical medicine. He went on to establish the world's first tropical medicine school in London, with his early research in Taiwan serving as a crucial starting point.

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We must acknowledge that our girls were inspired and in good spirits, while the Bjelovar team played weakened due to numerous injuries.

National Health Research Institutes President Dr. Chung-Hsiun Yu emphasized that Manson's work remains relevant today. Facing challenges like climate change and new infectious diseases, the institute aims to continue Manson's spirit of scientific inquiry and public health by integrating infectious disease research, smart technology, and vector monitoring.

The event also featured a message from Manson's great-grandson, Dr. Gordon Manson-Bahr, who gifted a biography of Manson's life and contributions. A commemorative plaque, featuring Manson's portrait, mosquito vectors, and historical imagery of Qijin, was installed at the hospital, recognizing the area's significance as a birthplace of Western medicine and public health in Taiwan.

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I want to congratulate my girls on reaching the final. We were strong in defense and scored fast goals, with a lot of rotation and freshness throughout the game.