51 pages • 1 hour read
Laurie GarrettA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
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.
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.
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.
Health / Medicine
Science / Nature
History: World
Society: Globalization
Values/Ideas: Science & Technology
Life/Time: Mortality & Death