The search for a safer and effective polio vaccine is one of the most remarkable stories in medical history.
A multi-million dollar peoples' crusade, 'The March of Dimes', raised the money for research. Its inspiration was President Roosevelt, himself a polio victim.
But the pressures on the scientists involved were intense. Massive publicity campaigns promoted polio as a huge and deadly plague, and fired public demand for a rapid break-through. There were tragic consequences on the road to ultimate success.
Dr Jonas Salk and Dr Albert Sabin, developed the vaccines which have made polio almost a thing of the past - few young doctors have ever seen a case. But the story they tell is one of false leads, frustrations and a rivalry which persists to the present day.
Narrator Lyndon Brook
Film editor Tony Tew
Executive producer Karl Sabbagh Written and produced by Christopher Sykes