We are profoundly saddened by the passing of Dr. Mahdokht Pourmansour, a revered pioneer at the Pasteur Institute of Iran. Her unwavering dedication to public health and relentless pursuit of excellence in vaccine production have forever shaped the field and inspired countless lives. Dr. Pourmansour's remarkable contributions stand as a testament to her commitment and selfless service, making her a lasting symbol of dedication and sacrifice. As we mourn her loss, we celebrate her extraordinary legacy, which will continue to resonate for generations to come. May her soul rest in peace, and may her memory be a source of strength and inspiration for all who follow in her footsteps.

Dr. Pourmansour graduated from the University of Tehran with a degree in medicine and went on to complete her residency in obstetrics and gynecology. In 1959, she joined the Pasteur Institute of Iran, where she pursued specialized training in microbiology at the Pasteur Institute in Paris. Upon her return to Iran, she further advanced her career by earning a doctorate in laboratory sciences. In 1971, she assumed leadership of the BCG department under the mentorship of Dr. Mehdi Ghodsi. Demonstrating exceptional initiative, Dr. Pourmansour traveled to Denmark and France to master the production processes of the lyophilized BCG vaccine and successfully produced the first sample of the BCG vaccine in dry form.

Her remarkable career included serving as the head of both the BCG and microbiology departments, as well as fulfilling roles as a World Health Organization expert and scientific advisor at the Pasteur Institute of Iran until 1984. Dr. Pourmansour retired in 1994, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to public health and vaccine development.

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