The symbol associated with WHO (World Health Organization) is based on the Rod of Asclepius, which features a staff with a single snake coiled around it. This emblem was chosen in 1948 by the First World Health Assembly and incorporates the United Nations symbol topped with the staff and snake, a traditional symbol of medicine and healing derived from the Greek god Asclepius, revered as a god of healing in ancient times
. It is important to distinguish this from the caduceus, which is a staff entwined by two snakes and sometimes topped with wings, traditionally associated with Hermes, the Greek messenger god. The caduceus symbolizes commerce, negotiation, and eloquence rather than medicine, though it has been mistakenly adopted by some medical organizations, notably in the United States
. In summary:
- WHO's emblem uses the Rod of Asclepius (one snake, no wings), symbolizing healing and medicine
- The caduceus (two snakes, wings) is linked to Hermes and commerce, not traditionally medicine, despite some modern misuses
