The Invisible Enemy by Dorothy Crawford

The Invisible Enemy by Dorothy Crawford

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Summary

This text reveals how viruses, with their amazing ability to mutate, have caused devastating diseases in the past and continue to provide one of the greatest challenges to science. The author seeks to provide an accurate account of these nimble parasites and counter media over-dramatization.

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The Invisible Enemy by Dorothy Crawford

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.
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 *

Dorothy H Crawford, Emeritus professor of medical microbiology, University of Edinburgh Dorothy H Crawford was professor of medical microbiology and assistant principle for public understanding of medicine at the University of Edinburgh from 1997 until 2010. In 2001, she was elected to the Royal Society of Edinburgh and the Academy of Medical Sciences as a Fellow, and in 2005, she was awarded an OBE for services to medicine and higher education. The Invisible Enemy (OUP, 2000), Deadly Companions (OUP, 2007), Virus hunt (OUP, 2013), and Viruses VSI (OUP, 2011) are among her works.

SKU Unavailable
ISBN 13 9780198564812
ISBN 10 0198564813
Title The Invisible Enemy
Author Dorothy Crawford
Condition Unavailable
Binding Type Paperback
Publisher Oxford University Press
Year published 2002-03-21
Number of pages 288
Cover note Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.