World Health Day marks a founding date

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.

WHO formally came into being as countries sought coordinated approaches to disease and health care.

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

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.

The findings followed participation by many families, healthcare workers and researchers.

The FDA approved Enovid for use as an oral contraceptive, expanding control over pregnancy.