The Rod of Asclepius is a common symbol for western medicine. It features on the flag of the World Health Organization as well as the logos of many hospitals and medical services. The symbol combines the image of a snake which sheds its skin and is reborn as it were, with the staff of the god of medicine.
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Asclepius, according to Greek mythology, had the blood of Medusa in his veins. His skill in the medical arts was so great that he was believed to be able to rouse the dead. His sculptures often show him carrying a staff with a snake wound round it.

Some scholars believe that the image became popular when physicians began using it to advertise their skill in removing worms. Parasites like the guinea worm often plagued the public and were removed by winding them around a stick. The similarity to the rod of Asclepius made it a common symbol.