A global health agency begins work

A critically ill woman received a scarce supply of the antibiotic during a life-threatening infection.

Penicillin was flown to the hospital and delivered in time for Miller’s first dose.

Miller became one of the earliest US patients whose life was saved by penicillin therapy.

The episode illustrated the need to manufacture enough penicillin for wider access during wartime.

The founding constitution established an international body devoted to health as a fundamental human right.

The constitution described health as physical, mental and social well-being, setting an ambitious goal.

The annual observance recalls the day the WHO Constitution came into force.

Investigators reported that the inactivated vaccine had protected participants in a large trial.

US authorities licensed the vaccine on the day the trial results were presented.

The announcement opened a new phase of polio immunization, requiring manufacturing and access.