Dr. Salk Calls for Public Understanding
Dr. Jonas E. Salk, in an analysis of the preparation and administration of poliomyelitis vaccine,
has described a "temporary situation that will require the exercise of judgment by practicing
physicians and health officers, and understanding by the public as well."
Speaking at the Scientific Symposium on Polio Vaccine, University of Michigan School of
Public Health, Dr. Salk said his study of the occurrence of paralytic polio in some people who
have had three doses of vaccine leads him to suggest:
"That the use of vaccines of less than optimal potency may well be the principal reason for the
occurrence of paralytic polio in persons who have had three doses of vaccine."
"That the attainment of potency levels of an order of magnitude sufficient to induce the desired
effects after one or two doses in practicably feasible."