GENEVA – Dr. David Nabarro, a notable British physician recognized for spearheading the U.N. response to major health emergencies such as bird flu, Ebola, and the COVID-19 pandemic, has passed away.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organization, confirmed Nabarro’s death on social media platform X.

“David was a significant advocate for global health and health equity, and he served as a wise and generous mentor to many,” Tedros shared on Saturday. “His efforts have touched and influenced numerous lives globally.”

In 2023, King Charles honored Nabarro with a knighthood for his significant contributions to global health, notably as one of the WHO’s six special envoys on COVID-19. He received the 2018 World Food Prize for his impactful work on health and hunger challenges.

He also was a candidate for the top job at the WHO in 2017 but lost out to Tedros in the final round of voting. Nabarro left the U.N. later that year.

The 4SD Foundation, a social enterprise in Switzerland focused on mentoring the next generation of leaders in global sustainable development, said its strategic director died at his home Friday in a “sudden passing.” Other details were not immediately available.

“David’s generosity and unwavering commitment to improve the lives of others will be sorely missed,” the foundation wrote on its website Saturday.

Survivors include his wife, Flo, as well as his five children and seven grandchildren.