Control of communicable diseases in the People's Republic of China

Communicable diseases were rampant in old China. Since the new China was founded, the Government has assigned high priority to the prevention of infectious diseases. A series of measures were adopted, such as instituting health policies in the vein of "Prevention First" as well as health laws and regulations, coordinating department participation and setting up the network of prevention and control of diseases. The incidence of leading infectious diseases has declined dramatically. Although great success has been achieved, infectious diseases still form one of the major public health problems in China. There are some existing problems which hinder the progress of infectious disease control. This situation is being addressed by the government and the slogan "Health for All in 2000" has become the focus of the nation.