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Thursday, July 6, 1972
Also for consideration was the development of immunisation against
other viral diseases, such as rubella and influenza, which continued to
resist laboratory attempts to control them by vaccines.
Dr. Choa referred to the conquest of infectious diseases by
the application of the principles of immunisation as "one of the most
colourful and exciting stories in the history of medicine."
In Hong Kong, as a result of largescale immunisation campagins
coupled with other preventive measures since the end of World War II,
smallpox had disappeared after the last case in 1952.
Immunisation of infants was now well received by parents, and
diptheria, whooping cough, poliomyelitis, even tuberculosis and measles,
were being brought under control.
Mr. G.R.J. Donnithorne, Director of Building Development, formally
handed the Institute over to Dr. Choa with the presentation of the keys
to the main doors,
He referred to the part played by the Public Works Department in
providing a further means of improving medical facilities in Hong Kong
by designing and constructing the Institute. He was sure it would have
"a regional importance in the future."
The Institute occupies an area of approximately 45,000 square
feet. It costs $2,900,000.
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