Viruses and society

"Viruses and Society" is a textbook written by Patricia Melloy, professor of biological sciences, Fairleigh Dickinson University

“Viruses and Society” is geared toward professionals and students in college-level introductory biology courses devoted to understanding viruses, vaccines and their global impact. In approachable and simplified language, the book introduces cells, DNA and viruses themselves. This is followed by a review of how the immune system works and how scientists and physicians harness the immune system to protect people through vaccines. Specific chapters focus on the 1918 influenza pandemic, the fight to eradicate polio, the HIV/AIDS pandemic and the current COVID-19 crisis. Additionally, the book reviews the uses of viruses in genetic engineering and gene therapy. It concludes by describing public health initiatives to keep emerging viruses in check and the role of scientific communication in how viruses are perceived and have an impact on our society.

CRC Press