HARVARD HELPS FIGHT PARALYSIS

The work of the Harvard Infantile Paralysis Commission is a conspicuous example of a great good little known. This Commission was appointed by the Corporation of the University when the resources of the Medical School were placed at the disposal of the doctors in charge during the epidemic of 1916. In spite of the seriousness of that epidemic we are apt to forget the dangers, even the existence, of the disease at present. Figures show that in Massachusetts during the first nine months of 1920 there have been over six times as many cases as during all last year. So little is known about the disease that its mere presence must be dangerous.

Two factors make the Commission's work important; the necessity for further treatment of those already paralyzed; and research work which shall effectively check the spread of a comparatively strange disease. Feeling that its first duty was to care for the paralyzed children, the members of the Commission have given much time and effort without compensation and with a limited budget. But no enterprise of this sort can be carried on without funds. The other side of the work--the study and tabulation of data, the experimental research--has been handicappel by slim support. Those of us who live outside of any contact with infantile paralysis can little realize the great good that is being done in changing cripples into wage earners--"the reconstruction and re-education of human derelicts." A greater good can be accomplished by learning how to prevent the spread of paralysis. The Harvard Infantile Paralysis Commission deserves the active support of a grateful public, especially of Harvard men who wish to endorse the action of the University in creating such a commission.