51 pages 1 hour read

Laurie Garrett

The Coming Plague: Newly Emerging Diseases in a World Out of Balance

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1994

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Coming Plague by Laurie Garrett examines infectious disease outbreaks of the mid-to-late 20th century, analyzing the underlying social, biological, and ecological factors that contribute to epidemic transmissions. It highlights challenges in global public health, from optimistic efforts to eradicate diseases like smallpox to the grim realities of combating resilient viruses like AIDS and Ebola. The book illustrates how human actions and ecological disruptions prompt microbial responses, emphasizing the need to understand our ecological role to mitigate future outbreaks. Note: The book discusses severe health crises and the suffering of affected individuals.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Garrett's The Coming Plague is lauded for its thorough research, vivid storytelling, and insightful analysis of global health issues. Readers appreciate its engaging narrative and educational value. However, some criticize the book for being dense and occasionally overwhelming in detail. Overall, it is a compelling and informative read for those interested in epidemiology and public health.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Coming Plague?

Readers fascinated by public health, epidemiology, and medical history would find Laurie Garrett's The Coming Plague compelling. Comparable to Richard Preston's The Hot Zone and John M. Barry's The Great Influenza, this book appeals to those interested in the battles against infectious diseases and emerging pathogens.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Health / Medicine

Science / Nature

History: World

Themes

Society: Globalization

Values/Ideas: Science & Technology

Life/Time: Mortality & Death