Fatemeh Bardestani
1 
, Mohammad Ali Rad
2, Mohammad Hossein Azizi
3, Mohammad Mehdi Gouya
3,4, Ehsan Mostafavi
1,3* 1 Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
2 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
3 Academy of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
4 School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
It is important to honor the contributions of scientific leaders who have dedicated their lives to advancing knowledge and serving their country. One way is to document their experiences and personalities in a documentary format, which can serve as a historical record and an inspiration for future generations. Dr. Mostafa Pourtaghva Shahrestani, a renowned physician and specialist in infectious diseases and tropical medicine, has made significant contributions to public health in Iran. He has played a crucial role in controlling infectious diseases such as smallpox, tuberculosis, rabies, plague, and cholera. Throughout his career, he has held various executive positions, including the head of Pasteur Hospital and the director of the Pasteur Institute of Iran. Dr. Pourtaghva’s life is a testament to his unwavering dedication to public health services, as evidenced by his continuous effort, love, and interest in honest work. His inspiring story can serve as a model for those who seek to follow in his footsteps.