PAHO Director Emeritus Dr Carissa Etienne has died at the age of 71.

The health organization confirmed her death in a statement today on its website, in which it expressed “great sorrow.”

Dr Etienne served as Director of PAHO and WHO Regional for the Americas from February 2013 to January 2023.

During her tenure, PAHO led the response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the region, as well as efforts against Zika and chikungunya.

Prior to becoming PAHO Director Dr. Etienne served as Assistant Director-General for Health Systems and Services at the WHO.