PROGRESS REPORT ON THE POLIOMYELITIS VACCINE PROGRAM

Within a relatively short space of time there has been significant progress toward immunizing the most susceptible segment of the nation's population against poliomyelitis. At the inception of the program, with only six manufacturers licensed to produce the vaccine, it was obvious that demand would far exceed the supply. Recognizing this problem, the Secretary of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare appointed the National Advisory Committee on Poliomyelitis Vaccine to make recommendations regarding the most satisfactory method of equitably distributing the vaccine available. This committee is broadly representative of the medical profession, pharmaceutical and drug industries, parents and teachers groups, and state and local health agencies. Dr. Chester S. Keefer, until recently Special Assistant to the Secretary for Health and Medical Affairs, is chairman of the committee. The secretariat is made up of staff of the Public Health Service. Based on recommendations of the National Advisory Committee, the voluntary