联合国通过决议:纪念“糖丸爷爷”!
Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-01-04 01:29

Core Viewpoint - The 100th anniversary of Gu Fangzhou's birth has been officially included in UNESCO's commemorative activities, highlighting his significant contributions to public health through the development of the oral polio vaccine [1][18]. Group 1: Commemoration and Recognition - The anniversary activities will be jointly held in China, France, and Italy during 2026-2027, marking another successful application by China for a scientist's anniversary event at UNESCO [1]. - Gu Fangzhou, affectionately known as "Sugar Pill Grandpa," is celebrated for his dedication to developing a vaccine that protected millions of children from polio [1][18]. Group 2: Historical Context of Polio Outbreak - In the summer of 1955, a severe outbreak of poliomyelitis occurred in Jiangsu, quickly spreading to other cities, posing a significant threat to children under seven [3]. - The only preventive measure against polio at that time was the development of a vaccine, which Gu Fangzhou was tasked with creating in 1957 [5]. Group 3: Vaccine Development Process - Gu Fangzhou and his team were sent to the Soviet Union in 1959 to learn about polio vaccine production, facing numerous challenges due to the lack of knowledge about the disease [7]. - By the end of 1959, they had mastered the technology for producing a live attenuated polio vaccine and began experimental production in China [8]. Group 4: Safety Trials and Innovations - Gu Fangzhou personally tested the vaccine and even used his own son as the first child subject in the trials, demonstrating his commitment to ensuring the vaccine's safety [10]. - The first batch of 5 million doses was successfully produced in December 1960, significantly reducing the incidence of polio in China [12]. Group 5: Long-term Impact and Legacy - The innovative approach of creating a solid form of the vaccine, akin to traditional Chinese medicine, allowed for widespread distribution and led to a dramatic decrease in polio cases [12]. - China was declared polio-free in 2000, marking a significant public health achievement and solidifying Gu Fangzhou's legacy in the field [14]. - Gu Fangzhou's contributions have transcended national boundaries, with his scientific spirit and dedication to public health recognized globally [18].