Every December 3rd we commemorate the Latin American Medicine Day, coinciding with the birthday of the eminent Cuban scientist, Dr. Carlos Juan Finlay y Barrés. Born in Camagüey in 1833, Dr. Finlay left an indelible legacy when he discovered the transmitting agent of yellow fever.
Recognized as the most profound and intense researcher of this disease, this visionary physician concluded that between an infected subject and a healthy one there was an independent agent that transmitted it, and he was able to identify the Aedes aegypti mosquito as the biological vector. His hard work and perseverance allowed him not only to make this discovery, but also to propose the theory of disease transmission by biological agents.
Finlay's work constituted a transcendental step in the understanding of the characteristics of epidemics that have affected mankind throughout history. On the 190th anniversary of his birth, we remember him as an inspiring example of dedication to the medical profession and of how science, at the service of health, can achieve significant advances in the protection of life.
On this historic date, we extend our congratulations to all Cuban health workers, both to those who are in the first trenches of combat in the country and to the thousands of collaborators who honorably provide their services in other parts of the world
To you, our most sincere recognition and the gratitude of all our people.
Happy Latin American Medicine Day!