The Invisible Enemy
A Natural History of Viruses
Published on 21. March 2002
Book
Paperback/Softback
288 pages
978-0-19-856481-2 (ISBN)
Description
Viruses are disarmingly small and simple. None the less, the smallpox virus killed over 300 million people in the 20th century prior to its eradication in 1980. The AIDS virus, HIV, is now the single most common cause of death in Africa. In recent years, the outbreaks of several lethal viruses such as Ebola and hanta virus have caused great public concern.
In her fascinating and vividly written book, Dorothy Crawford describes all aspects of the natural history of these deadly parasites, explaining how they differ from other microorganisms. She looks at the havoc viruses have caused in the past, where they have come from, and the detective work involved in uncovering them. Finally, she considers whether a new virus could potentially wipe out the human race.
This is an informative and highly readable book, which will be read by all those seeking a deeper understanding of these minute but remarkably efficient killers.
In her fascinating and vividly written book, Dorothy Crawford describes all aspects of the natural history of these deadly parasites, explaining how they differ from other microorganisms. She looks at the havoc viruses have caused in the past, where they have come from, and the detective work involved in uncovering them. Finally, she considers whether a new virus could potentially wipe out the human race.
This is an informative and highly readable book, which will be read by all those seeking a deeper understanding of these minute but remarkably efficient killers.
Reviews / Votes
Review from previous edition "The book is lovingly researched and packed with fascinating anecdotes and I found it extremely difficult to put down...No home is complete without this book, if only as a reminder to wash your hands." * Press and Journal * The Invisible Enemy is accessbile to the genereal reader, accurate and thought-provoking * Ian Simmons, The Fortean Times * "I recommend The Invisible Enemy to anyone with questions about the nature of viruses and their role in human diseases...The Invisible Enemy is a clear and powerful beacon that penetrates the increasingly dense fog of media reports, folklore and myths" * New Scientist * "Professor Crawford writes in a clear and accessible manner, which successfully conveys her fascination with the subject, and poses lots of interesting questions. Recommended reading for microbiologists; highly recommended for journalists, politicians and the public seeking understanding of big topical issues such as AIDS/HIV and BSE/CJD." * Microbiology Today * "...this fascinating book provides a rapid and accessible introduction to modern virology". * Nature *More details
Language
English
Place of publication
Oxford
United Kingdom
Target group
College/higher education
Illustrations
numerous halftones; figures and maps
Dimensions
Height: 196 mm
Width: 129 mm
Thickness: 16 mm
Weight
213 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-19-856481-2 (9780198564812)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
New editions
Book
11/2021
2nd Edition
Oxford University Press
€16.00
Shipment within 15-20 days
Person
Content
Foreword ; Introduction: The deadly parasites ; 1. Bugs, germs, and microbes ; 2. New viruses or old adversaries ; 3. Coughs and sneezes spread disease ; 4. Unlike love, herpes is forever ; 5. Viruses and cancer ; 6. Searching for a cure ; Conclusion: The future, friends, or foe ; Index