3 Review(s)

Viruses are disarmingly small and simple. Nevertheless, the smallpox virus killed over 300 million people in the twentieth century before it was eradicated in 1980. The AIDS virus, HIV, is now the world's biggest killer infection and is 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 and yet most people remain woefully ill informed. In this fascinating new book, Professor Crawford explains lucidly and accessibly all aspects of the natural history of these deadly parasites and discusses controversial subjects such as CFS and Gulf War Syndrome. The book then moves on to consider issues such as how man has coped with viruses in the past, where new viruses come from, and whether a new virus could wipe out the human race. In the last chapter the author attempts to answer the vital question; who will be the final victor - man or virus? In each case Professor Crawford tackles the question with enthusiasm, and illustrates her arguments with vivid and wide-ranging examples.The result is an informative and highly readable book which will be read by all those who seek a deeper understanding of these minute but remarkably efficient killers.