Infectious IDeas
You are listening to Infectious IDeas, a podcast presented by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), that goes beyond the science to explore the personal stories behind the people who do the work. Each episode features thought-provoking conversations with inspiring leaders and humble heroes making a powerful impact on public health. Through their experiences, we uncover the human side of infectious disease prevention and treatment—all driven by a shared vision of healthier lives for all.
Infectious IDeas
Leading with Passion and Purpose—Demetre C. Daskalakis, MD, MPH
Join Marla Dalton, PE, CAE, and William Schaffner, MD, for an inspiring conversation with Demetre C. Daskalakis, MD, MPH, director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). He shares his journey from HIV clinical practice to public health leadership, demonstrating his relentless passion and commitment to health equity, clear and transparent communication, and ensuring equitable access to vaccines for all children and adults.
Show notes
Daskalakis leads CDC efforts to detect, prevent, and respond to vaccine-preventable and respiratory infectious disease threats. He began his career at Bellevue Hospital in New York, where he spearheaded HIV testing and prevention programs. As deputy commissioner for the Division of Disease Control at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, he directed public health programs on HIV, tuberculosis, sexually transmitted infections, and vaccine-preventable diseases, and earned a national reputation as an activist and advocate for at-risk populations. He also served as the NYC incident commander during the measles outbreak in 2019 and the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. He joined CDC in 2021 as director of the Division of HIV Prevention and served as deputy coordinator of the White House Mpox Response.
