A look inside the life of the late epidemiologist Mary-Louise McLaws

PROFESSOR Mary-Louise McLaws, who guided Australians through the Covid pandemic, has died aged 70.

Here we take a look inside the life of the late epidemiologist and the beloved family she leaves behind.

1

Who was Mary-Louise McLaws?

Mary-Louise McLaws, born March 17, 1953, was a leading Australian epidemiologist who dedicated her career to preventing diseases.

McLaws worked as a professor of epidemiology at the University of New South Wales School of Public Health and Community Medicine.

She also served as World Health Organisation (WHO) adviser to China and helped with infection-control research in Cambodia, Bangladesh, Mali, Indonesia, Iran, Vietnam, Taiwan and Turkey.

Aside from this, the late professor provided invaluable advice to Australians during the Covid pandemic.

She became a household name during the pandemic, advising on the best course of action during countless media interviews in both Australia and across the globe.

In 2022, McLaws was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia in the General Division for ”distinguished service to medical research, particularly to epidemiology and infection prevention, to tertiary education, and to health administration.”

Was Mary-Louise McLaws married?

Mary-Louise McLaws leaves behind her husband, Richard Flock.

The pair, who wed in 1988, welcomed two children together during their marriage.

Aside from this information, not much else is known about McLaws marriage to Richard.

Did Mary-Louise McLaws have any children?

McLaws is survived by two children, Zia and Zachary.

As mentioned above, not much else is known about McLaws’ family life, with the late epidemiologist appearing to keep the details of her personal life private.

What was Mary-Louise McLaws cause of death?

In August 2023, Richard, the husband of Mary-Louise McLaws announced the news of her passing following a battle with cancer.

She was diagnosed with brain cancer in January 2022.

In a statement to the Sydney Morning Herald Richard said: ”Our dear Mary-Louise passed away in her sleep on Saturday night.

”She had been so well cared for by the nurses and doctors at Wolper Hospital in Woollahra and had enjoyed the visits of her many friends who have been so supportive of her and our family.”