As the world becomes more connected, the threat of pandemics becomes more serious, and being informed about fast-spreading illnesses is more important now than ever before. This volume discusses global diseases of the past and present, how modern outbreaks are controlled and treated, and how doctors and scientists are working to prevent pandemics in the future.

Introduction: Microorganisms, friend and foe -- A history of infectious disease -- Pandemics in the modern era -- Fighting pandemics -- The threat of future pandemics -- The future of global health.