ABSTRACT
Dr Malekafzali, an elite biostatistics professor at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, in his more than 50 years of glorious service, has played a crucial role in creation of fundamental evolution in public health, reproductive health and development of applied research in Iran. He has left lasting activities in administrative positions such as health and research deputies, health minister consultant, director of health faculty and director of health research institutes. He published several books and articles on statistics, epidemiology and public health. This article is a review of his worthy and interesting activities in the country's health, research and education.
Subject(s)
Biostatistics/history , Epidemiology/history , Public Health/history , Awards and Prizes , History, 20th Century , History, 21st Century , IranABSTRACT
The National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NITAG) was established in Iran in 1982 and has made many important technical recommendations (e.g., regarding polio eradication, introduction of new vaccines, organizing special studies) that have contributed to a dramatic decline in vaccine preventable disease burden. The NITAG consists of experts from the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME), vaccine manufacturers, and medical universities with national Expanded Program of Immunization (EPI) staff serving as the secretariat. It is not completely independent from MOHME or EPI. It meets on a quarterly basis, and publishes national guidelines and immunization schedules that are updated regularly. Although primarily an advisory body, representation from MOHME members, including the EPI manager, ensures almost universal implementation of NITAG recommendations.
