The logo of the World Health Organization (WHO) was chosen by the First World Health Assembly in 1948. It features the United Nations emblem surmounted by a staff with a snake coiling around it. This staff with the snake is a long- standing symbol of medicine and healing, originating from the Greek god Asclepius, who was revered as a god of healing

. The WHO logo consists of this emblem plus the words “World Health Organization” or “WHO.” Its use is strictly controlled: only institutions officially collaborating with WHO and involved in WHO-related work may use it, and always with express written permission. The logo implies WHO endorsement of the material it accompanies, so unauthorized or commercial use is prohibited

. The emblem and logo are protected intellectual property, safeguarded by international agreements and national legislation in most WHO member states. They cannot be used to promote specific companies, products, or ideologies

. In summary:

• The WHO logo symbolizes global health and medicine, combining the UN symbol and the Asclepius staff.
• It was adopted in 1948 by the first World Health Assembly.
• Use is restricted and requires official permission.
• The logo represents WHO’s endorsement and credibility in health matters

This logo is distinct from other uses of the term "Who" such as the British rock band The Who, whose logo is unrelated and designed by a different artist