Our mission

The Mérieux Foundation operates in more than 25 low- and middle-income countries where healthcare needs are most critical, and targets regions that are particularly affected by geopolitical, demographic, and economic crises, as well as climate change. These factors contribute to the emergence or re-emergence of pathogens and the spread of infectious diseases, while resources to combat them remain scarce. To date, pneumonia remains the leading cause of child mortality worldwide, with 99% of deaths occurring in resource-limited countries. Tuberculosis continues to claim over a million lives annually, primarily in low- and middle-income countries.

Protecting vulnerable populations from infectious diseases

Reception of consultations at a maternity ward in Guinea

Tuberculosis and pneumonia are just two examples of the infectious diseases that the Mérieux Foundation has been combating for nearly 60 years. We specifically target vulnerable populations, including isolated individuals, displaced people, or those living in humanitarian, security, or health crises. We fight to improve access to effective and adapted diagnostics and care for all.

Our efforts focus on addressing tuberculosis, antimicrobial resistance, acute respiratory infections, and emerging pathogens. Our mission is to enhance diagnosis, treatment, surveillance, and response to epidemics, while strengthening healthcare systems and living conditions to efficiently curb disease spread.

Our core objectives

To improve diagnostics and surveillance

To advance public health

To adopt a global health approach

Our five cross-cutting means of action

To develop laboratory infrastructure and equipment
To strengthen the skills of laboratory personnel and healthcare professionals
To support local public actors to sustainably improve health systems
To encourage knowledge-sharing among public health experts
To identify needs on the ground in order to improve healthcare access for communities

A rapid, efficient, and flexible response to field needs

In a lab room, students are working, two students are in the foreground and a group is in the background. — In Madagascar, we support training, a lever for local ownership over the long term

In 1974, the Foundation played a key role in a massive meningitis vaccination campaign, reaching 100 million people in just 100 days. Mirroring this landmark campaign, our work today remains characterized by speed, efficiency, and adaptability to specific needs. We establish partnerships with national actors and prioritize local ownership to ensure long-term impact and targeted action. We foster healthcare transformation by setting ambitious goals and leveraging key strategies to improve global health in a lasting way.

Our integrated approach to health

Malagasy children wash their hands in a basin outside, facing the view. — Children benefiting from WASH programs in Madagascar

The spread of infectious diseases is exacerbated by poor healthcare access, lack of education, and inadequate nutrition. This is why we advocate for an integrated approach of health, expanding our work beyond infectious disease expertise to address factors that directly impact living and health conditions. Women and children, who are most affected in times of crisis, remain our top priority.