In memory of Dr. Naseem Salahuddin

Dr. Naseem Salahuddin, one of Pakistan's most distinguished infectious diseases specialists, a compassionate physician, and an unwavering advocate for the underserved, passed away on Friday 22 May 2026. Her sudden death has left an immeasurable void among the many whose lives she touched.

Dr. Salahuddin devoted her life with rare dedication and humanity to those most in need. She combined clinical excellence with deep empathy, ensuring that even the poorest patients received care with dignity and respect. Her work was never confined to hospital walls; she championed public health and education causes that uplifted entire communities, particularly those long neglected by mainstream healthcare and school systems.

Dr. Salahuddin served as Professor Emeritus at the Indus Hospital & Health Network, where she played a transformative role in advancing clinical practice, research, and policy in areas critical to national and global health.

Dr. Salahuddin served on the World Health Organization's Strategic and Technical Advisory Group for Neglected Tropical Diseases (STAG-NTD) and Expert Advisory Panel on Rabies, in which capacities she contributed extensively to national and international research and policy and practice. She was widely recognized for spearheading the landmark Rabies Free Pakistan initiative, introducing the globally endorsed "One Health" approach that integrated human, animal, and environmental health strategies. Through mass dog vaccination campaigns, public awareness, improved surveillance, and access to care she helped save countless lives worldwide.

In addition, she worked relentlessly on patient-centered and evidence-based care for other infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, particularly multidrug-resistant TB, and HIV. Dr. Salahuddin will be remembered as a mentor and teacher by generations of physicians and healthcare professionals for instilling in them a sense of responsibility, integrity, and service.

Another beautiful side not many may know are the books she composed, 'Among my own, The Untold Stories of my People', and 'If Stones could Speak - Echoes from the Past' which she co-authored with her husband Dr Iftikhar Salahuddin.

Dr. Salahuddin is survived by her beloved husband, children and grandchildren and a vast community of colleagues, students, and grateful patients. Her legacy endures.

Dr. Salahuddin's journey reminds us that greatness lies not only in knowledge, but in the humility, generosity and kindness with which it is shared. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.