Rohit Shishodia
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has mourned the demise of the world renowned microbiologist and biotechnologist Prof. (Dr.) MK Bhan. Prof Bhan, a Padma Bhushan awardee, was a former secretary in the department of biotechnology, who brought fame to the country by developing the first ever Rotavirus vaccine locally.

Rotavirus is a leading cause of diarrhoea in children less than 5 years of age. It is estimated that rotavirus still causes 8,72,000 hospitalizations and 32,70,000 outpatient visits. The virus still causes an estimated 78,000 deaths annually in India.

Dr. Bhan was an icon of Indian Biotechnology who worked for the health of the masses whether it is in AIIMS where he served as a faculty or in the health department.

“Such was his aura that global institutions like Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Wellcome Trust provided international funding to Indian Biotechnology and healthcare under his able control. He was a pioneer in the field,” said IMA.