Edward Jenner is widely credited as the pioneer of the smallpox vaccine. Jenner's discovery “has saved more lives than the work of any other man.” In 1979 the World Health Organization declared smallpox an eradicated disease, vaccination being the essential component.

Sometimes referred to as the “Father of Immunology” Jenner laid the groundwork for modern-day discoveries in immunology, and the field he began may someday lead to cures for arthritis, AIDS, and many other diseases of our time.