EVALUATION OF RED CROSS GAMMA GLOBULIN AS A PROPHYLACTIC AGENT FOR POLIOMYELITIS

Abstract

As a result of experience in the 1951 pilot test in Utah (see this issue, page 739), in which 5,767 children were injected with either gamma globulin or gelatin during a poliomyelitis epidemic, several minor changes in the original plan were proposed for the continuation studies. The following changes were the more important ones. Through arrangements with the Becton-Dickinson Company, a disposable syringe with a preloaded cartridge containing 4,7, or 11 cc. was perfected. This would allow for much faster operation of the clinics. These syringe units of gamma globulin or gelatin would be assembled and packaged in random order and given serial numbers for identification in the same way as the vial units used in Utah. The label bearing the serial number would be slipped into the extra length of the glass cartridge in the disposable unit and not affixed with adhesive. This label would be removed by the