Katherine OBrien

Dr. Katherine L. O'Brien is a distinguished epidemiologist and global health expert specializing in vaccinology and infectious diseases, particularly focusing on pneumococcus-related illnesses such as pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis. Her research encompasses disease burden assessment, serotype distribution analysis, vaccine impact evaluation, cost-effectiveness studies, and exploration of vaccine access barriers.

She has spearheaded significant projects, including the Pneumococcal Global Serotype Project, and her work has been instrumental in estimating the global burden of diseases like pneumonia and diarrhea in children. Dr. O'Brien is a strong advocate for immunization programs, emphasizing their importance especially in low-resource settings.

Prior to her role at the World Health Organization (WHO), she was affiliated with the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, where she directed vaccine impact studies and mentored public health professionals. Currently, as the Director of Immunization, Vaccines and Biologicals at WHO, she focuses on developing global vaccine strategies and ensuring equitable access to vaccines, including efforts related to COVID-19.

Dr. O'Brien has authored numerous influential papers in prestigious journals such as The Lancet and the New England Journal of Medicine, addressing topics from disease burden to vaccine efficacy. She actively uses social media to promote immunization and public health advocacy, further solidifying her reputation as a leader in the global health community.