International Office of Public Health

international organization

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June 29, 2026

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The International Office of Public Health (L'Office International d'Hygiène Publique) was established in Paris in 1907. Its primary role was to receive and transmit information about serious communicable diseases among participating countries. It also worked to develop international sanitary conventions and quarantine regulations, particularly for shipping and train travel. This organization was a precursor to the modern World Health Organization (WHO), which absorbed it in 1948. The need for such international cooperation in health protection has been recognized since ancient times, driven by the spread of epidemic diseases. Early efforts included national quarantines and international conferences aimed at standardizing health regulations.12

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World Health Organization
…up in 1923) and the International Office of Public Health at Paris (established in 1907), WHO was given a broad mandate under its constitution to promote the attainment of “the highest possible level of health” by all peoples. WHO defines health positively as “a state of complete physical, mental, and…
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…up in 1923) and the International Office of Public Health at Paris (established in 1907), WHO was given a broad mandate under its constitution to promote the attainment of “the highest possible level of health” by all peoples. WHO defines health positively as “a state of complete physical, mental, and…
Read More