FIRST WORLD HEALTH ASSEMBLY

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OFFICIAL RECORDS

OF THE

WORLD HEALTH ORGAMZATION

No. 10

REPORT OF THE INTERIM COMMISSION

TO THE

FIRST WORLD HEALTH ASSEMBLY

Part 11 PROVISIONAL AGENDA

Documents and Recommendations

United Nations

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Interim Commission

350 Fifth Avenue, New York Palais des Nations, Geneva

May 1948

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According to Article 2 (b) of the Arrangement concluded by the Governments represented at the International Health Conference, one of the functions of the Interim Commission of the World Health Organization was " to prepare and submit to the signatories of this Arrangement, at least six weeks before the first session of the Health Assembly, the provisional agenda for that session and necessary documents and recommendations relating thereto, including

" (i) proposals as to programme and budget for the first year of the Organization,

" (ii) studies regarding location of headquarters of the Organization,

" (iii) studies regarding the definition of geographical areas with a view to the eventual establishment of regional organizations as contemplated in Chapter XI of the Constitution, due consideration being given to the views of the governments concerned, and

" (iv) draft financial and staff regulations for approval by the Health Assembly. "

The Interim Commission was further obliged by Article ro of the Arrangement to " submit a report of its activities to the Health Assembly at its first session. "

After consideration of the form in which these documents might best be presented, the Interim Commission decided on submission of a report in two parts : part I to be the " report of its activities "

required in Article ro of the Arrangement, and part II to constitute the " provisional agenda . . .

and necessary documents and recommendations relating thereto " as required in Article 2 (b).

The first part of the Report will contain a concise account of the origin and work of the Interim Com- mission up to as late a date as possible, and will be submitted to the Health Assembly. A financial statement will be included or submitted separately.

The accompanying provisional agenda and supporting documents form the second part of the Report of the Interim Commission.

A. STAMPAR, M.D.

CHAIRMAN OF THE INTERIM COMMISSION

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NOTE

Throughout this document, the following system of numeration has been adopted. The main items of the agenda (p. 1) are given the primary numbers Divisions of these items are indicated by secondary numbers separated from the primary numbers by a point. Thus, the item Establishment of main Committees " has the primary number 12, which always indicates relationship to main committees. Each of the five main

divisions of this item is designated by a secondary number : 12. I Committee on Programme

12. 2 Committee on Administration and Finance 12. 3 Committee on Relations

xg. 4 Committee on Headquarters and Regional Organization 12. 5 Legal Committee

Thus, the numbers 12. I indicate relationship to the Committee on Programme.

The secondary numbers, are in turn, sub-divided by tertiary numbers following a point. For example, 12. 1. 7 Other activities is the seventh section of 12. I. Further sub-divisions are indicated by additional series of numerals separated by points.

12. I. 7. 3 Nutrition is the third sub-section of 12. I. 7

In some places, references to the Official Records of the WHO (Off.

Rec. WHO), numbers 1-8, are given in the text or as footnotes. Numbers 1, 3, 4 and 5 of the Official Records were dispatched before the fifth session of the Interim Commission. Numbers 2, 6, 7 and 8 will have been received already, or will be despatched with the present document or shortly afterwards.

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PROVISIONAL AGENDA

X. Opening of proceedings by the Chairman of the Interim Commission, World Health Organization

2. Welcome of delegations and observers

3. Adoption of provisional rules of procedure (page 97) 4. Establishment of Committee on Credentials

5. Establishment of Committee on Nominations 6. Election of President

7. Presidential address 8. Election of Vice-Presidents

9. Report of the Interim Commission

9. I

Presentation of part I : Report of activities

9. 2

Presentation of part II : Provisional agenda and necessary documents and recommendations

IO. Discussion on the Report of the Interim Commission

II.

Adoption of Agenda

12. Establishment of main Committees 12. X Committee on Programme (page 3)

12. 2

Committee on Administration and Finance (page 27)

12. 3

Committee on Relations (page 57)

12. 4

Committee on Headquarters and Regional Organization (page 85)

12. 5

Legal Committee (page 95)

13. Establishment of General Committee 14. Reports of Committees

15. Election of Members entitled to designate a person to serve on the Executive Board 16. Election of Director-General

17. Selection of country or region in which second World Health Assembly will meet 18. Instructions to the Executive Board

19. Other business 20. Adjournment

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12. I. I

Election of Chairman and Vice-Chairman Page

12. 2 Election of Rapporteur

12. X. 7. 1. I I Technical education 12

7. 5 Virus diseases 14

7. 6. 2 Hygiene of seafarers ¹⁵

12. X. 7. 6. 3 Insulin 15

12. I.

7. 6. 4 Natural resources ¹⁵

12. I.

7. 6. 5 Rheumatoid diseases ¹⁵

12. I.

⁸ Fellowships, medical literature and emergency services 16

12. I.

⁹ International standards ¹⁷

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12.

I. 9.

1 Therapeutic, prophylactic and diagnostic agents

2 Development of international pharmacopceia

Page 17 17 12.

I.

¹⁰ International epidemiology

12. I. 3 MALARIA 12. i. 3.

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Introduction

An international programme on malaria control is recommended in view of the high prevalence of malaria, amounting to hundreds of millions of cases each year with millions of deaths ; the mass mental and physical deterioration caused by malaria to populations of large areas of the world ; the serious loss in working efficiency among malaria-ridden populations which contributes directly to the critical world-shortage of food ; the availability of new and effective techniques and agents which are not as yet widely exploited ; and the record of effective international action in malaria control and the interest expressed by governments in receiving technical assistance in this field.

12. I. 3. 2 Objectives

To assist governments in improving and developing effective national and local control programmes based on modern scientific methods ; to promote the widest and most effective use of new methods of malaria control ; to develop and promote measures to protect countries against the introduction of exotic anophelines ; and to develop uniform international epidemiological procedures and nomenclature in malariology, including relevant entomological nomenclature.

12. i. 3. 3 Programme

The programme recommended to implement these objectives is as follows :

12. I. 3. 3.

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Investigations

Studies to determine :

The extent of and trends in malarial prevalence and anopheline infestation Factors affecting spread of malaria

The relative value of available methods of control The efficacy of agents used in the control of malaria 12.

I. 3.

3. 2

Operations

12.

I. 3.

^{3. 2.} I AssiStance to governments Provision of :

Expert advice on the control of malaria Fellowships and visiting experts

Teams and individuals to carry out demonstration malaria-control programmes Expert advice on education of the public

12. I. 3. 3. 2. 2

Action on the international plane

Promotion of the production of insecticides and therapeutic agents and improvement of their distribution

Collection and distribution of technical information Development of international regulations

Co-operation with other organizations concerned with malaria Participation in relevant congresses and conferences

12. I. 3. 4 Organization

The organization necessary to initiate this programme in 1949 is as follows (fuller details

will be found in 12. 2. 8. 2. 2) :

A section on malaria as part of the WHO Secretariat

An expert advisory committee consisting of not more than ten members, and meeting sa y twice a year

A panel of corresponding members

Individual experts and teams, employed on a temporary basis as required

Reference : Report on the first session of the Expert Committee on Malaria. Off. Rec. WHO, No. 8, section II.

Note. - It is expected that the report on the second session of the Expert Committee on Malaria will be available to the Health Assembly,

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12. I. 4

12. I. 4 MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH 12. I. 4.

ⁱ

Introduction

An international programme for maternal and child health is recommended in view of the high incidence of preventable deaths among infants and mothers in large areas of the world ; the effectiveness of available techniques in reducing mortality and improving the health of infants and mothers ; the immediate and continuing need, for the protection of coming generations, of scientific guidance in the utilization of available foodstuffs ; the high incidence of communicable and other preventable diseases among children ; the widespread mental and emotional maladjust- ment and insecurity among children and youth ; the insufficient understanding and knowledge among parents and others of the causes of ill-health and abnormal behaviour of children ; and the effects of economic and social changes on the physical, mental and emotional development of children.

12. I. 4. 2 Objectives

To assist governments in developing services and facilities that will assure adequate maternity care, the best possible chance of survival to infants, and to all children normal physical growth and development, mental and emotional health, and freedom from preventable disease ; to pool knowledge, acquire new facts, develop standards of care, and distribute information in respect of all relevant matters ; and to co-operate with other agencies on joint undertakings which apply knowledge and techniques in the fields of social and biological sciences and of education to problems of maternity and childhood.

12. I. 4. 3 Programme

12. r. 4. 3.

I

Investigations

Studies on :

Statistical and other research projects on the causes and methods of reducing maternal, infant and childhood morbidity and mortality

Child guidance and mental health of children

Social aspects of a maternal and child health programme

Facilities and personnel for providing maternity care and health services for children, including hospital and auxiliary services

12.

I. 4.

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Operations

12.

I. 4.

^{3. 2.} I Assistance to governments Provision of :

Expert advice on administration of maternal and child health programmes Fellowships and visiting experts

Experts or teams to demonstrate special services

12. 1. 4. 3. 2. 2

A programme of co-operation and joint action with organizations concerned with maternal and child health

Collection and distribution of relevant information, including : Results of research and investigations

Information on current procedures, methods and administrative practices

Preparation of reports on maternity and child care, including standard techniques, methods and practices, and materials for use in health education programmes

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12. I. 4. 4 Organization

The organization necessary to initiate this programme in 1949 is as follows (fuller details will

be found in 12. 2. 8. 2. 4) :

A section on maternal and child health as part of the WHO Secretariat

An expert advisory committee consisting of not more than ten members, meeting say twice a year

Reference :

Maternal and child health programme. Off. Rec, WHO, No. 7, Annex 47.

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12. I. 5

12. I. 5 TUBERCULOSIS

n. a. 5.

i

Introduction

An international programme for the control of tuberculosis is recommended in view of the high prevalence and wide distribution of tuberculosis among the peoples of the world ; the rapid increase of incidence during the war, which continues in the present unfavourable economic and social environment ; the advances made in techniques of control during recent years ; and the interest expressed by governments in receiving technical assistance in this field.

12. I. 5. 2 Objectives

To assist governments in improving and developing effective national and local control programmes ; to promote the wider application of modern methods of control, including case- finding, isolation, treatment, after-care, rehabilitation ; to promote the development of social and economic measures for the protection of afflicted families ; and to promote the development and application of modern techniques of prophylaxis.

12. I. 5. 3 Programme

The programme recommended to implement these 'objectives is as follows :

12. I. 5. 3.

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Investigations

Determination of the extent of the problem and of available resources for control Continuous review and evaluation of control programmes

Evaluation of effects of the campaign of BCG vaccination at present carried on by the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund

12.

I. 5.

3. 2

Operations

12.

I. 5.

Expert advice on diagnosis and treatment, medical and social aspects of control, public education, and control of bovine tuberculosis

Fellowships and visiting experts

Teams to demonstrate practical control methods

12. I. 5. 3. 2. 2

Action on the international plane Collection and distribution of technical information

Development of uniform procedures and standards of tuberculosis control, where appropriate Co-operation with other organization concerned with tuberculosis

Participation in relevant congresses and conferences

12. I. 5. 4 Organization

be found in 12. 2. 8. 2. 3) :

A section on tuberculosis control as part of the WHO Secretariat

Individual experts and teams, employed on a temporary basis as required A special expert panel on BCG

References :

Relations with UNICEF, Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, Annex 22.

Report on the first session of the Expert Committee on Tuberculosis. Off. Rec. WHO, No. 8, section VI.

NOTE. - The report on the second session of the Expert Committee on Tuberculosis will be available to the Health Assembly.

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12. i. 6 VENEREAL DISEASES 12. I. 6.

i

Introduction

An international programme of venereal-disease control is recommended in view of the high prevalence and wide distribution of venereal infections among the peoples of the world ; the aggravation of the problem and deterioration of control resulting from the war ; the special significance of international travel in the epidemiology of these diseases ; the availability of new and effective techniques and therapeutic agents, as yet not fully exploited ; and the record of effective international action in this field.

12. z. 6. 2 Objectives

The objectives of the recommended programme, with special emphasis on syphilis, are to assist governments in improving and developing effective national and local control programmes based on modern scientific measures ; to promote the widest and most effective use of new therapeutic agents ; to develop standards in regard to diagnostic, prophylactic, therapeutic and control techniques ; and to improve the control of the spread of infection between nations.

12. I. 6. 3 Programme

12. I. 6. 3.

I

Investigations

Studies on the nature and extent of venereal infections, morbidity and mortality, factors affecting spread, and the value of control methods in use

Studies on standardization of agents used in venereal-disease control

Studies on the production and distribution of penicillin and other therapeutic agents 12.

z. 6.

3. 2

Operations

12.

i. 6.

Expert advice on the prophylactic, diagnostic, therapeutic, legal and social aspects of venereal-disease control

Fellowships and visiting experts

Teams to demonstrate practical venereal-disease control measures Expert advice on education of the public in venereal-disease matters

12. i. 6. 3. 2. 2

Development of international regulations, including the matters covered by the Brussels Agreement of 1924

Stimulation of the production of penicillin and the improvement of its distribution Collection and distribution of technical information on venereal diseases

Research grants to organizations, institutions or individuals capable of carrying to a definite conclusion the study of specific problems of venereal disease recommended by WHO Co-operation with other international organizations contributing to venereal-disease control Participation in relevant congresses and conferences

12. I. 6. 4 Organization

be found in 12. 2. 8. 2. 5 )

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A section on venereal-disease control as part of the WHO Secretariat

References :

Summary of preliminary report on venereal diseases. Off. Rec. WHO, No. 6, p. 192.

Report on the first session of the Expert Committee on Venereal Diseases, Off. Rec, WHO, No. 8, section VII

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12. I. 7

12. I. 7 OTHER ACTIVITIES

The Interim Commission has considered many matters of significance to general public health and certain other health problems of considerable magnitude. Recognizing that WHO will not be in a position in 1949 to develop full programmes in all matters requiring international action, it recommends a substantial programme which, while not adequate to all needs of the subjects included in this section, is considered sufficient to cover necessary initial activities both central and in the field and to provide for the studies essential to further planning.

It is recommended that work be carried on, as deemed best in each case, through one or more of the following means : a central staff, expert advisory committees of WHO or jointly with other agencies, temporarily employed consultants, correspondence with experts, consultation with appropriate technical organizations, and assistance to governments through staff experts, individual consultants, demonstration teams, and other methods. The Interim Commission believes that such funds are included in the recommended budget as will enable WHO to build a sound foundation for future development and to provide in 1949 the necessary services to governments in urgent need of assistance.

It is recommended that particular attention should be given to the following : Alcoholism

Drug addiction and habit-forming drugs Hygiene of seafarers

Influenza Nursing Nutrition Rural hygiene Schistosomiasis

The fields included in the programme recommended are :

12. I. 7.

ⁱ

Organization of Public Health 12. I. 7.

I. I

Hospitals and Clinics

One of the most significant post-war developments in the organization of public health has been the vast amount of reconstruction of the buildings and services of hospitals and clinics necessitated by, among other factors, destruction during the war. There is increasing interest in all countries in the integration of these services with other public-health services and in the design of the buildings necessary. The Interim Commission considers it desirable that WHO should have facilities available for studying these questions (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 41).

12. I. 7. f. 2 Housing and Town Planning

An international study on housing and town planning is considered desirable because suitable standards of amenities, such as ventilation, lighting, insulation against heat, cold and noise, and disposal of wastes are essential to health. There is a record of international collaboration by the Housing Commission of the League of Nations and its technical sub-committees and responsibility now devolves upon WHO. It is suggested that WHO should obtain from all competent sources such information as will permit the establishment of satisfactory health standards in urban and rural housing ; and that it should place technical advice on the hygiene of housing at the disposal of bodies dealing with housing on an international basis, such as, for example, the Economic Com- mission for Europe and the Social Commission (011. Rec. WHO, No. 5, p. 107).

At its fifth session, the Interim Commission passed a resolution emphasizing the importance of the hygiene of housing and recommending that WHO consider the desirability of having at its disposal services to carry out the above functions (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 41, and Annex 20).

12. I. 7. I. 3 Industrial Hygiene

In view of the increasing interest displayed in this subject and also in view of the obligations contained in the proposed Agreement between ILO and WHO (see 12. 3. 4. 3. 2), it is recommended that there be provided an expert advisory committee of not more than ten members and that there be provision in the Secretariat to service this committee.

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One of the functions of WHO, as laid down in Chapter II, Article 2 of the Constitution, is

" to study and report on, in co-operation with other specialized agencies where necessary, administrative and social techniques affecting public health and medical care from preventive and curative points of view, including hospital services and social security ". The problem of the organization and extent of medical care for the entire population or groups thereof now constitutes a basic item of many health programmes. Many different forms of organization exist, varying from the voluntary for selected groups to uniform state-operated systems which embrace the whole population. Legislative aspects of medical care have received attention from ILO (Off.

Rec. WHO, No. 7, Annex 25), and the International Labour Conferences have made recommendations from time to time.

Many aspects of medical care are of essential interest to WHO, and it is considered desirable that WHO should be in a position to initiate, in co-operation with other specialized agéncies, relevant studies (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 40).

12. I. 7.

I . 5

Medical Rehabilitation

The rehabilitation of those incapacitated as a result of accidents, war or sickness is an aspect of the organization of public health which is receiving ever-growing attention. It is considered desirable that the recent advances made in dealing with this problem in many countries during and after the war should be studied and that WHO should be in a position to supply information upon request (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 41).

12. I. 7. I. 6 Medical Social Work

The increasing importance accorded to medical social work and the extensive devtlopment of the use of social workers as medical auxiliaries render it desirable, in the opinion of the Interim Commission, to have available facilities in the WHO Secretariat for the study and promotion of such services.

12. I. 7.

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Nursing

The rôle of the nursing profession in modern public-health and medical services is well established. Both the curative and the preventive approaches to health and sickness presuppose an adequate supply of well-trained nurses. Many methods exist of ensuring an adequate corps of nurses, and there are often different approaches to the solution of the problem in the same country.

Emergency and first-aid aspects of nursing have long been the responsibility of the Red Cross societies. The Health Organization of the League of Nations displayed interest in the training

of nurses for public-health work. Standards of technical education, determination of professional levels, specialization within the profession, and the organization of nursing services are problems of concern to many countries, and it is believed that they should receive international consideration.

Therefore, it is considered desirable that there be facilities within the Secretariat for study and advice on nursing and that an expert advisory committee be established consisting of not more than ten members, to meet say twice a year (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 53).

12. I. 7. I. 8 Public-health Administration

An effective and strong national public-health service in each country is a condition for the realization of any extensive national or international programme for securing the health of the peoples. Preliminary studies show that very many countries are lagging seriously behind in this respect and further that public-health organization and methods vary widely also between those countries showing the greatest development in public-health administration. In view of the long record of international study and publications on this subject, notably by the Health Organization of the League of Nations and the Office International .d'Hygine Publique, and the present widespread interest indicated by many governmental health departments, it is considered desirable that WHO carry on further intensified studies in order to develop standards for organization and methods of public health and to strengthen the public-health services in many countries (Off. Rec.

WHO, No. 7, p. 40).

12. I. 7. I. 9 Rural Hygiene

The fundamental importance of rural hygiene in the health of the populations of vast regions of the world is generally recognized, and the environment and character of life of rural populations call for a special approach. Such an approach was made internationally at the Conference on

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12. I. 7

Rural Hygiene held in 1931 in Europe and in 1937 in the Far Eastern countries, under the auspices of the League of Nations, and a world conference on rural life with emphasis on rural hygiene was planned for 1939.

Recent trends in economic and social development of agricultural regions indicate increased interest in adequate health programmes in rural areas, and it is considered desirable that WHO should continue the activities of the League of Nations and facilitate the spread to rural areas of recent progress in hygiene.

There will be certain joint responsibilities in this connexion, notably with UNESCO (see the Haiti Pilot Project in fundamental education and the Hy lean Amazon Institute, X2. 3. 4. 5.

and co-operation in this field is envisaged with FAO, which has certain responsibilities in rural welfare (O t'. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 53).

12. I. 7. I. 10 Sanitary Engineering

In view of the importance of sanitary engineering to all public-health activities, it is considered desirable that services of this type be available within the WHO Secretariat. Such advisory services would have special relevance to the proposed malaria programme, and the suggested

activities on housing, rural hygiene, tropical hygiene, etc. (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 40).

12. X. 7. I. I I

Technical Education

An international programme in technical health education is considered desirable in view of the adverse effects of the war on the education of the medical and auxiliary professions in many countries ; the changing requirements for the education of these medical and auxiliary professions as a result of scientific and social advances, the widespread contemporary interest in technical health education, and the record of international operations. The objectives of such a programme would be to gather information on all aspects of technical health education and to facilitate the exchange of such information (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 4, p. 169 ; No. 7, p. 40).

12. I. 7. I.

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Tropical Hygiene

In view of the history of international interest in this subject and the various recommendation for collaboration with other organizations, for example, UNESCO (the Haiti Pilot Project ; the Hylean Amazon Institute ; see 12. 3. 4. 5. ) and the resolutions of the fifth session of the Interim Commission recommending that attention be paid to the health aspects of food production in certain areas in collaboration with FAO (09.Rec.WHO, No. 7, Annex 2o) it is considered advisable that there be facilities available within the WHO Secretariat for study and advice on tropical hygiene.

X2. I. 7. 2 Mental Health

In view of the increasing interest displayed in this subject, and the growing recognition of its social and economic implications by national and international organizations, it is considered desirable that WHO should have facilities for initial studies (09. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 41).

12. I. 7. 2.

¹ Alcoholism

An international study of alcoholism is considered desirable in view of the considerable increase in its prevalence during the past few decades, the relative lack of interest in the pathology of alcoholism and the uninformed state of public opinion about the effects of alcohol on mental and physical health.

The objectives of such a study would be to collate laboratory and clinical research on the effects of alcohol upon the human organism, to promote the training of medical and auxiliary personnel in education of the public on alcoholism, and to assist in the exchange of information on technical and administrative aspects of this problem (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 5, p. 137 ; No. 6, P. 55 ; No. 7, P. 55).

12. I. 7. 2. 2 Drug Addiction and Habit-forming Drugs

According to the Protocol of II December 1946, amending the Conventions on Narcotic Drugs of 1925 and 1931, WHO is to be substituted for the Health Committee of the League of Nations in Articles 8 and io of the 1925 Convention and in Article II (paragraphs 2, 3, 4) of the 1931 Convention. In both cases, WHO will have to obtain the advice of an expert advisory committee

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appointed by it before deciding whether a narcotic drug is or is not capable of producing addiction, or whether the product, not being itself a drug capable of producing addiction, is or is not convertible into such a drug.

At its second session, the Interim Commission 'authorized the appointment of an Expert Committee on Narcotic Drugs, the title of which was changed at the third session to the Expert Committee on Habit-forming Drugs (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 5, p. 141). A request has already been submitted to this Committee for advice concerning the exemption of Valbine (a preparation containing Eucodal) from the provisions of the 1925 Convention. It also has to consider the action to be taken under the 1931 Convention concerning such drugs as amidone and metopon hydrochloride (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 6, p. 55 ; No. 7, Annex 2, part 16).

It is recommended that WHO continue the activities carried on by the Interim Commission, and that there should be established an expert advisory committee on habit-forming drugs consisting of not more than ten members, meeting as required.

12. I. 7. 3 Nutrition

Nutrition is perhaps the most important single environmental factor influencing health.

The discoveries of recent decades show that inadequate nutrition plays an important part in infant mortality, in the excessive proportion of under-developed school children and adolescents, and in the poor health and low productivity of a large number of adults. The availability of all kinds of foodstuffs has diminished, and there is a dire need for improvement in the nutritional sphere in most countries. It is considered desirable that WHO should be in a position to assist governments towards solving their nutritional problems and to stimulate the development and application of nutritional knowledge in the promotion of health. It is recommended that WHO establish jointly with FAO an expert advisory committee on nutrition consisting of not more than ten members, and a panel of corresponding members, and that suitable facilities be made available in the Secretariat to serve this committee, to supply information as required and to ensure implementation of the draft Agreement between WHO and FAO which was approved by the third Annual Conference of FAO and by the Interim Commission on 12 September 1947 (see 12. 3. 4. I. 2) (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 6, p. 145 ; No. 7, p. 53).

NOTE. - The Government of Yugoslavia has requested that the problem of communal feeding be considered by the World Health Assembly.

12. I. 7. 4 Special Endemic Diseases 12. I. 7. 4.

I

Ankylostomiasis

It is considered that ankylostomiasis, an infestation of great significance to rural hygiene in tropical and sub-tropical regions, merits attention by WHO, in order that it may be possible to conduct preliminary studies to assist governments in developing programmes against this disease (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 39).

12. I. 7. 4. 2 Filariasis

Filariasis has not previously been studied on an international scale and the terminology and classification of diseases grouped under this general title are by no means uniform. It is considered desirable that WHO should be in a position to study and disseminate available information, and to encourage uniform classification (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 39).

12. I. 7. 4. 3 Leishmaniasis

The Interim Commission, recognizing the significance of this group of diseases, their widespread incapacitating effects on large numbers of the population in certain parts of the world, and the recent advances in control of the vector, considers it desirable that there should be facilities in the Secretariat for study and exchange of information in regard to these diseases (Off. Rec. WHO, NO. 7, p. 41).

12. I. 7- 4. 4 ^Leprosy

There has already been considerable international study of leprosy, for example, by the four international conferences on leprosy, by the Commission for the Study of Leprosy appointed by the League of Nations and by the International Centre for Research on Leprosy established at Rio de Janeiro under the auspices of the League of Nations.

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12. I. 7

The WHO should consider continuing the international work on leprosy, including investigations on epidemiology, treatment and prophylaxis, in co-operation with the International Leprosy Association and other organizations (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 39).

12. I. 7. 4. 5

S chistosomiasis

The representative from Egypt proposed to the third session of the Interim Commission that schistosomiasis be placed on the agenda of the first Health Assembly, and, at the request of the Interim Commission, submitted a paper in which it is stated that schistosomiasis is second only to malaria in importance as a parasitic disease of man. In Africa, Asia and America, particularly in agricultural areas, it incapacitates millions of individuals, and is attended by acute economic im- poverishment. It is considered desirable that WHO should collect information on the prevalence, incidence and geographic distribution of the disease and on control measures and economic implications ; that it should be in a position to furnish to governments as complete-information on the disease as possible ; and that an expert advisory committee should be established consisting of not more than ten persons, meeting say twice a year (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 5, p. 139 ; No. 6, p. 56 ; No. 7, p. 53).

12. I. 7. 4. 6 Trypanosomiasis

In view of the widespread distribution, the grave social and economic toll exacted by this condition, its importance in plans for the economic development of the affected regions, and the record of international work in this field, particularly by the International Commission on Human Trypanosomiasis of the League of Nations, it is considered desirable that WHO be in a position to initiate studies.

12. I. 7. 5 Virus Diseases

12. I. 7. 5.

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Acute Anterior Poliomyelitis (Infantile Paralysis)

In view of the recent work which has been done on this disease, the increase in incidence and the request from the Government of Ireland that this subject be placed on the agenda of the first Health Assembly, which request was endorsed by the Interim Commission at its fifth session, it is recommended that facilities for preliminary study be provided in the Secretariat. It should also be noted that the Belgian Ministry of Health has put forward a proposal regarding supplies of " iron lungs " in Europe (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, Annex 53).

12. I. 7. 5. 2 Influenza

The Interim Commission consulted the fourth International Congress on Microbiology at Copenhagen in July 1947 for advice on influenza and the part which WHO might usefully play in its study and control.

Over 40 experts from various countries attended an informal meeting outside the Congress, at which Dr. C. H. Andrewes (London) was asked to draft a note on international collaboration on influenza. This note, which advocated the setting-up of a World Influenza Centre, was submitted to the Interim Commission at its fourth session (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 6, p. 193). The Commission approved the recommendation and decided to contribute a sum not to exceed $3,000 yearly to the working of the Centre. Such a Centre could obviously be established only in a scientific institute already engaged in research on influ'enza, and the British Medical Research Council accepted the Interim Commission's proposal that the Centre should be formed in the National Institute for Medical Research, London. Dr. C. H. Andrewes, of the Council's staff, was authorized to direct the Centre. It is recommended that the grant to the Medical Research Council in support of the World Influenza Centre established in London be continued. (International collaboration in the influenza field. Off. Rec. WHO, No. 6, p. 193).

12. I. 7. 5. 3 Rabies

The value of anti-rabies treatment is being challenged to-day. There is a growing feeling, particularly in certain countries, that vaccination in man may not be as effective as originally believed.

In inviting the Health Organization of the League of Nations to collect and publish statistics of treatment, the first International Rabies Conference (Paris, 1927) thereby hoped to gain information as to which method of vaccination was the best. Despite the collection of an imposing

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mass of material (1,670,848 treated persons) the expectations of those who planned the investi- gation have not been fulfilled, and experts from eight countries who met in Bucharest in 1938 emphasized the need for a second International Rabies Conference.

It is therefore clear that other approaches will have to be found, but a review of all aspects of the problem of anti-rabies treatment should first be made, and this can best be done by discussion between rabiologists. For the preparation of such an international conference the Health Assembly may desire to authorize a preliminary survey of the problem by a group of experts (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 41).

12. I. 7. 5. 4 Trachoma

This serious and chronic eye condition is widely prevalent over many temperature zones.

The need for control of this disease, which, in many cases, results in complete blindness, is very great, and it is considered desirable that WHO be in a position to acquire and to disseminate information on the most recent advances in its treatment and prevention.

12. I. 7. 6 Other Subjects requiring Study 12. I. 7. 6.

ⁱ

Cancer

Because of certain commitments undertaken by the Interim Commission in this connexion and the widely and increasingly recognized significance of cancer, it is considered desirable that facilities be available in the Secretariat for preliminary study, and, where possible, collaboration with other international organizations (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 39 and Annex 36).

12. I. 7. 6. 2 Hygiene of Seafarers

An international programme for hygiene of seafarers is considered desirable in view of the great number of persons engaged in maritime activities, the importance of a high standard of health among seafarers to international commerce, the high prevalence of certain disease conditions among the maritime profession, special problems arising from an irregular and interrupted life aboard and in ports, and the record of international action in this field.

The objectives of such a programme would be : in co-operation with other international organizations to assist governments in developing a higher standard of medical care in preventive and curative programmes against health hazards to which seafarers are exposed ; to improve the control of the spread of infections between nations ; to promote welfare for seafarers aboard and in ports ; to promote development of international health regulations for seamen, including revision and expansion of the Brussels Agreement of 1924 (og Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 53).

12. ][. 7. 6. 3 Insulin

An international study of the supply of and demand for insulin is considered desirable, because insulin has been extremely scarce in many countries for the past few years, owing to increased demand.

Improved diagnosis ; the increase in the number of diabetics ; the decrease in the number of cattle due to the war ; the decrease in supply of fish-glands ; the decline in international trade and the present currency restrictions further intensify this stringency. It is suggested that the survey initiated by the Interim Commission be continued by WHO (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 6, p. 56 ; No. 7,

Annex 2, part 14).

12. I. 7. 6. 4 Natural Resources

The Interim Commission, at its fifth session, with special reference to the activities of the various economic organs of the United Nations, expressed the opinion that economic development without adequate health measures is necessarily incomplete and that it is the right of people to expect that proper health measures be taken concurrently with such efforts for economic development. The Interim Commission also recommended co-operation in the preparations for the United Nations Conference on the Conservation and Utilization of Resources so that the views of WHO may be suitably presented. It is considered desirable that there be facilities within the WHO Secretariat for this purpose (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 41) (see also 12. 3. 3. 3. 2. 7).

12. I. 7. 6. 5 Rheumatoid Diseases

In view of the increasing attention now being paid to this group of diseases, in cardiac and arthritic aspects, and the extremely important social effects of such conditions, it is considered desirable that there be facilities for preliminary study of this subject by the Secretariat of WHO (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, p. 41).

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12. I. 8

12. x. 8 FELLOWSHIPS, MEDICAL LITERATURE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES

12. I. 8. i Introduction

At least four types of territories may require aid from WHO in the form of fellowships, medical literature, special teaching apparatus and emergency medical services : (a) those which have suffered severe losses in health personnel, buildings or material as a result of war ; (b) those which, through any cause - e.g., isolation, lack of foreign exchange - have been unable to keep abreast of advances in medical knowledge ; (c) those whose health services are below the average, either through lack of social, educational or economic development or other causes ; (d) those subjected to an exceptional strain on their health services - e.g., through a major epidemic, the appearance of a new disease, a natural disaster such as an earthquake, etc. - and therefore requiring emergency medical aid.

12. I. 8. 2 Objectives

Under Articles I and 2 of the WHO Constitution, and particularly Article 2 (c)^, (d) and (g), aid should be afforded to the above groups of countries through WHO. Such aid may be of any type desired by the government and approved by WHO within the limits of its resources. Among the forms this aid might take are :

(a) provision of training facilities, in the form of fellowships, study tours (b) medical literature and special teaching material

(c) provision of medical supplies in emergencies, or advice on their procurement 12.

x. 8.

3

Programme

12.

I. 8.

3. I

Fellowships

This has proved to be a valuable form of service to governments provided by the Interim Commission under the terms of the agreement with UNRRA, (3E2. 3. 6). Although, by 1949, a certain progress will have been made in bringing war-devastated and war-isolated countries up- to-date with recent advances in medical knowledge, the necessity for an expanded programme will undoubtedly exist : first, as one of the means of implementing the proposed programme in malaria, tuberculosis, etc. ; secondly, to assist governments in strengthening their health services ; and thirdly, to meet the probable increased demand from countries for which no provision was made under the terms of the agreement with UNRRA.

12. x. 8. 3. 2 Medical Literature and Special Teaching Material

Destruction by war, isolation and even the inability to obtain foreign medical literature through lack of foreign exchange may result in retardation of medical education and even medical progress through inability of the medical profession in a particular country to obtain adequate access to the medical literature of the world. The teaching of advances in medical science may also be handicapped by the absence of special teaching material which cannot be produced within the country and for which foreign exchange cannot be found. The Interim Commission recognized both these needs and has provided certain countries with medical literature and teaching material under the agreement with UNRRA.

12. I. 8. 3. 3 Emergency Medical Services

An epidemic or other catastrophe may result in a request for international help. It

has been overwhelmingly demonstrated in the past that, unless some provision is made in advance of such a request, the help required often arrives too late to exert its optimum benefit.

In relation to serious epidemics, WHO may be regarded as a primary source of assistance.

It

is therefore essential that a small sum of money be immediately available for the provision of urgent supplies and services in most cases against repayment by the country concerned. Machi- nery for giving advice on the immediate procurement of medical supplies should also be available.

12. I. 8. 4 Organization

The organization envisaged to perform these services will be found in some detail in

12. 2. 8. 2. 7

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12. I. 9 INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS 12. i. 9.

I

Therapeutic, Prophylactic and Diagnostic Agents 12. I. 9.

1. I

Introduction

Biological standardization is a heritage from the Health Organization of the League of Nations, under whose auspices international standards and units have been established for thirty-nine substances which are assayed by biological methods. By agreement with the Danish Government and with the British Medical Research Council, the State Serum Institute, Copenhagen, and the National Institute for Medical Research, Hampstead, serve as centres for the preparation, mainte- nance and distribution of international standards.

12. I. 9. I. 2

Objectives

To provide the medical practitioner with biOlogical products of proved efficacy ; to supply health authorities with standards for measuring the value of the biological remedies placed on the market ; to simplify the task of the manufacturers who need to express the potency of export products only in terms of accepted international units.

12. I. 9. I. 3 Programme and Organization

The organization necessary to implement this programme in 1949 is as follows (fuller details

will be found in 12. 2. 8. 2. 8)

A section on biological standardization as part of the WHO Secretariat

Sub-committees on antibiotics, antigens, blood-groups, vitamins, hormones, and others as circumstances shall dictate ^-

It is also recommended that the Health Assembly consider :

Continuation of the grants made to the Hampstead and Copenhagen Institutes for their services Taking over the International Salmonella Centre, established in 1938 at the State Serum

Institute, Copenhagen, as recommended by the Expert Committee on Biological Stan- dardization

Reference:

Report on the first session of the Expert Committee on Biological Standardization. Off. Rec. WHO, No. 8, section I.

NOTE. - The report on the second session of the Expert Committee on Biological Standardization will be available to the Health Assembly.

12.

I. 9.

²

International Pharmacopceia

12.

I. 9.

^2. I

Introduction

At the third session of the Interim Commission, held in Geneva in April 1947, it was decided to set up an Expert Committee on the Unification of Pharmacopceias to continue the work of the Technical Commission of Pharmacopceial Experts of the Health Organization of the League of Nations. The Belgian Pharmacopceia Commission had been entrusted provisionally with the work of the International Secretariat for Pharmacopceias. The Expert Committee held its first session in Geneva, from 13 to 17 October 1947.

12. /. 9. 2. 2

Objectives

To produce a draft international agreement for the unification of pharmacopceias, modifying and extending the existing Agreement for the Unification of the Formula of Potent Drugs, and to present the draft agreement as an international pharmacopceia, similar in form to the present national pharmacopceias. Such an international pharmacopceia would have no authority in any country until it had been adopted officially by that country.

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12. I. 9

12. I. 9. 2. 3 Programme and Organization

The organization necessary to implement this programme in 1949 is as follows (fuller details

will be found in 12. 2. 8. 2. 9) :

A section for unification of pharmacopoeias as part of the WHO Secretariat

Expert translation

Reference :

Report on the first session of the Expert Committee on Unification of Pharmacopceias. Off. Rec. WHO, No 8, section VII.

NOTE. - It is expected that the report on the second session of the Expert Committee on the Unification of Phar- macopceias will be available to the Health Assembly.

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12. X. ICO

INTERNATIONAL EPIDEMIOLOGY

Prompt information on outbreaks of pestilential diseases and information on morbidity and mortality from other diseases is an international service of established value. The international collection and distribution of epidemiological and statistical information had been one of the essential functions of the international health' organizations - the Office International d'Hygidne Publique since 1907, the League of Nations Health Organization since 1921, and UNRRA since 1944, to mention only those whose activities were worldwide.

The Interim Commission of the World Health Organization inherited these duties and functions under the Arrangement of 22 July 1946 : from the League of Nations (through the United Nations) on 16 October 1946 (Article 2 (d)), from UNRRA on r December 1946 (Article 2 (0), and from the Office on r January 1947 (Article 2 (e)) (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 2, part Vc). On April 1947, it took over the epidemiological intelligence service of the Eastern Epidemiological Bureau of the League of Nations (Off. Rec.WHO, No. 5, p. 56).

The functions of WHO in international epidemiology may be considered in the following categories :

x2. I. xo.

^I

Sanitary Legislation and Epidemiological Services

12. I. IO.

I. I

Administration of existing Conventions ; Epidemiological Information 12. X. IO. I.

I. I Introduction

The administration of the 1926/38 and 1944 International Sanitary Conventions for Maritime Traffic and of the 1933 and 1944 International Sanitary Conventions for Aerial Navigation will become the responsibility of WHO.

The actual administration of the Conventions has been the function of the Notifications and Quarantine Service of the Interim Commission, under the supervision of an Expert Committee on Quarantine (for report, see Off. Rec. WHO, No. 8, section IV) and with the assistance of a panel of experts on yellow fever. The Service has collected data on pestilential diseases, issued telegraphic notifications (in Singapore, broadcast epidemiological bulletins), issued printed confir- mations with details and indications of quarantine measures taken in the Weekly Epidemiological Record (Geneva) and Weekly Fasciculus (Singapore). Fuller information is also printed in the monthly and annual Epidemiological and Vital Statistics Report (see also 12. I. II).

Its staff has also acted as secretariat to the Expert Committee on Quarantine and the yellow- fever panel, and carried out inquiries and action connected with all phases of the administration of the Conventions. In 1947, these inquiries covered the following subjects :

Ports accepting quarantine messages by radio Quarantine measures against psittacosis Estimation of rodent infestation in ships Disinsectization of aircraft

Disinfection of aircraft

Sanitary conditions of Mecca pilgrimage

Improvement of epidemiological information and notification service, including possibilities of broadcasting epidemiological bulletins from Geneva

Practicability of routine international testing of yellow-fever vaccine Forms of international inoculation- and vaccination-certificates

The staff has also made inquiries useful for quarantine purposes, including : Inoculation Of infants against yellow fever

Significance of the " immune reaction " following revaccination against smallpox Postvaccinal encephalitis

12. I. IO. I. I. 2

^Objectives

12. I. IO.

I. I. 2. I Collection, and dissemination as rapidly and widely as possible to national and port health-administrations, of information relating to pestilential diseases and quarantine measures.

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12. I. IO

12. I. II).

I. I.

2. 2

Control of other subjects relating to international quarantine, including : Delineation of yellow-fever endemic areas

Approval and testing of yellow-fever vaccine

International certification of inoculation against yellow fever Action concerning breaches of Conventions

International vaccination-certificates

12. I. W. I. I. 3

Programme and methods

12. I. ICI. I.

I. 3.

I Continuation of the services outlined in

12. I. UN I.

I. I

12. I.

I. 3. 2

The extension of the system of epidemiological telegraphic notifications by broadcasting or other means necessitates the replacement of the present Epidemiological Telegraphic AA Code designed for the Eastern countries, by a more comprehensive one - namely, the " Codepid " Epidemiological Telegraphic Code, the preparation of which was approved by the Interim Commission, and which is to be supplemented by a set of administrative maps and a grid.

12. I. 3[0. I.

I. 3. 3

The Office published an International Quarantine Directory describing quarantine installations and procedures in the maritime ports. Changes resulting from the war necessitate a new edition (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 5, p. 131).

12. I.

I. I. 3. 4 A similar, smaller volume on International Air Quarantine listing and describing sanitary aerodromes, yellow-fever-proof aerodromes and others, together with local quarantine equipment and procedures is required.

12. I. W. I. I. 3. 5

Research in connexion with the work of both the expert advisory committee on quarantine and the yellow-fever panel.

12. I. ICI. I.

I. 4

Organization

The organization necessary to continue this programme in 1949 is estimated as follows (fuller

details will be found in 12. 2. 8. 2. IO and 12. 2. 8. 2.

12) :

A section for the administration of existing Conventions as part of the WHO Secretariat An expert advisory committee on quarantine consisting of not more than ten members,

meeting say twice a year A panel of experts on yellow fever

Publication of epidemiological reports, epidemiological codes, quarantine directories, etc.

(for list, see 12. I. 12)

12. I. ¡O. I. 2 Revision of International Sanitary Legislation 12. I.

I. 2. I Introduction

At its second session, the Interim Commission decided that the existing international sanitary legislation required examination and revision (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 4, p. 167). Revision of the Conventions had been carried out in the past by the Office, and this responsibility was transferred to the Interim Commission under Article 2 (1.) of the Arrangement of 22 July 1946 and to WHO under Articles 19 and 21 of the Constitution. The Interim Commission considered that this task could best be performed by setting up an expert advisory committee on international epidemic control (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 4, p. 167 ; No. 5, pp. 55, 127 ; No. 6, p. 218).

At its second session, the Interim Commission appointed an Expert Sub-Committee for the Revision of the Pilgrimage Clauses of the International Sanitary Conventions (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 5, p. 132). This Committee met in April 1947, visited Jedda, and prepared a report and draft text (Off.Rec.WHO, No. 8, section V). The Interim Commission recommends that the report and text together with the replies of Governments (Off.Rec.WHO, No. 7, Annex 63) be considered by the Health Assembly.

12. I. 10. I. 2. 2

Objectives

To modernize and consolidate international sanitary legislation.

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12. I. 10. I. 2. 3

Programme and methods

12. I. IO. I. 2. 3.

I Preparatory technical work : The work of the suggested expert advisory committee on international epidemic control necessitates a considerable amount of preparatory technical work. A study of recent literature on the epidemiology and all other aspects bearing upon international quarantine of each of the pestilential diseases has been carried out by medical officers of the Interim Commission Secretariat. The information collected is to be placed at the disposal of specialized study-groups.

12. I. 10. I. 2. 3. 2

Expert advisory panels : At its fifth session, the Interim Commission decided to form joint study-groups with the Office consisting of three to four experts on : cholera ; smallpox and vaccination ; and other epidemiological problems. The expert advisory committee on international epidemic control would refer specific problems to these groups, who would, if necessary, undertake research on such problems. The cost of the joint study-groups will be borne by the Office (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 7, Annex 29).

At its fourth session, the Interim Commission decided to bring together during the Interna- tional Congress on Tropical Medicine and Malaria in May 1948 in Washington experts on plague to draw up a programme of international action regarding plague. This may result in the forma- tion of a group of plague experts, whose advice could be used by the expert advisory committee.

The WHO may wish to form specialized panels on typhus and on other epidemic diseases.

12. I. W. I. 2. 3. 3

Legal sub-committee : The expert advisory committee on international epidemic control will require the services of a small sub-committee of legal experts, similar to the group which has already met, to study the problems arising from action implementing Articles 19, 21 and 22 of the WHO Constitution.

12. I. UN I. 2. 4

Organization

The organization necessary to continue this programme in 1949 is estimated as follows (fuller details will be found in 12. 2. 8. 2. IO) :

A section for revision of international sanitary legislation as part of the WHO Secretariat An expert advisory committee consisting of not more than ten members, with the President of the Office, the Director-General of the Pan American Sanitary Bureau and a representative of ICAO attending in an ex-officio capacity, meeting say twice a year

A legal sub-committee A group of experts on plague

Joint study-groups on cholera, smallpox and vaccination and other epidemiological problems 12. I. ICO. 2

Epidemiological Studies

Studies on epidemic diseases are required in connexion with the administration and the revision of International Sanitary Conventions and to provide expert commentaries in the epi-

demiological and statistical publications of WHO.

Work on diseases which do not require full-time specialists may be entrusted to the epidemio- logists of the epidemiological studies service.

12. I. IO. 2.

^I Objectives

To provide in the WHO publications expert comment on the epidemiology and trend of communicable diseases

To make studies on such diseases which, althoUgh of public-health interest, do not require full-time or permanent specialists

To answer external requests for information on communicable diseases To carry out epidemiological studies in the field, on request

12. I. IO. 2. 2 Programme

Apart from the so-called " convention " diseases, dealt with above, the Interim Commission recommends study on a number of epidemic diseases, including typhoid fever. The epidemiological aspects of such studies, as in the past, could be carried out on a part-time basis by the

staff envisaged in 12. 2. 8. 2. IO

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it 2. i. ix

HEAL TH S TA TIS TICS

12. I. II. I Introduction

An international programme of work on health statistics is presented in view of the recognized requirements of health administrations for reliable data, the lack of international comparability of health statistics due to the differences in definitions and methods employed, the failure to make full use of morbidity statistics as sources of information in national and international health work, the lack of knowledge on certain aspects of chronic diseases (incidence, average annual mortality- rate, survival rates, effectiveness of treatment) and the wide range of health questions which require statistical methods for determining the size of the problem, planning action, and measuring the results of programmes.

12. X. II. 2 Objectives

To make available to all interested administrations and specialists health statistics collected from all countries ; to assist governments in improving and developing national and local regis- tration-systems ; to improve international comparability of health statistics ; to stimulate effective utilization of available health statistics in the study of health problems ; and to promote statistical methods applicable to public-health work and to medical research.

12. X. XX. 3 Programme

12. I. II. 3.

I

Investigations

Surveys of procedures employed in the collection and compilation of health statistics Studies concerning the international comparability of health statistics, including classification

(nomenclature) of diseases and causes of death 1 Studies on the methodology of health statistics Promotion of useful statistical methods

Collaboration with the statistical services of the United Nations and the specialized agencies in fields of common interest

Participation in any WHO research problem lending itself to statistical treatment

12. I. IX. 3. 2 Operations

12. X. IX. 3. 2.

I Assistance to governments

Meeting the international demand for health statistics Expert advice in the field of health statistics

Experts to demonstrate the practical application of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases, Injuries and Causes of Death

12. I. II. 3. 2. 2

Continued operation of the Epidemiological Information Service and its Statistical Unit in the collection and publication of ePidemiological and other health statistics 1

The publication of a monthly Epidemiological and V ital Statistics Report and an Epidemiological and Vital Statistics Annual

Publication of handbooks of vital statistics covering the main countries (continuation of League of Nations series)

Revision of the International Lists of Diseases and Causes of Death

Development of international regulations concerning the compilation and publication of health statistics

1 Functions inherited from pre-existing organizations 22

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BCG vaccination campaigns

12. I. II. 3. 2. 3

Assistance within the Secretariat

Advice to expert advisory committees and their secretaries on statistical methods and technical assistance in the design and analysis of various research projects

12. I. II. 4 Organization

The organization necessary to carry out this programme in 1949 is as follows (fuller details will be found in 12. 2. 8. 2.

II):

A section on health statistics as part of the WHO Secretariat

An expert advisory committee on health statistics consisting of not more than ten members, meeting say twice a year, with temporary sub-committees as required

Individual experts and teams, employed on a temporary basis as required A panel of corresponding members

References:

Report on the first session of the Expert Committee for the Preparation of the Sixth Decennial Revision of the International Lists of Diseases and Causes of Death (Off. Rec. TVHO, No. 8, section III A). Report on the second session (Off. Rec. WHO, No. 8, section III B).

23