The 50th anniversary of the World Health Organization

: In the 1998, the World Health Organization celebrates its 50th anniversary. The creation of the WHO in 1948 has terminated long-lasting efforts in the development of the international organization which can promote, support and coordinate improvement in the international health. In the paper, the history of the WHO, its present structure and functions, budget, main areas of activity, achievements and problems are discussed. The WHO's contribution in the improvements in the world's public health and especially in the control of infectious diseases is essential. However, to meet new challenges of the coming XXI century, and to catalyse, encourage and support needed reforms, the WHO itself has to reorganize its structure and to discuss its strategical concepts.