Description

Ignaz Semmelweis (1818–1865), a Hungarian physician of German descent, pioneered antiseptic procedures, earning him the title "saviour of mothers." He discovered that hand disinfection among healthcare workers in obstetrical clinics significantly reduced postpartum infections, such as puerperal fever. Despite his findings, Semmelweis faced rejection from the medical community due to conflicting opinions and lack of theoretical explanation. He was later committed to an asylum, where he died under suspicious circumstances. Only after his death did his work gain recognition, with Louis Pasteur confirming germ theory and Joseph Lister implementing hygienic practices based on Pasteur's research.

Engravers: József Reményi, Dezső Kovács