Other editions of book Overview Series - Epidemics

People tend to think that modern medicine has made epidemics a thing of the past, but many experts on infectious disease disagree. Changes in disease-causing microbes and in human behavior are increasing the likelihood of epidemics.

Epidemics of infectious disease can spread like forest fires, killing thousands within weeks. This anthology presents firsthand accounts of some of the greatest epidemics of all time; it also describes what causes epidemics, why they are a threat today, and how scientists track them and attempt to prevent or stop them.

Epidemics of infectious disease can spread like forest fires, killing thousands within weeks. This anthology presents firsthand accounts of some of the greatest epidemics of all time; it also describes what causes epidemics, why they are a threat today, and how scientists track them and attempt to prevent or stop them.