Joseph P. Byrne

Jo N. Hays

Beyond their impact on public health, epidemics shape and are shaped by political, economic, and social forces. This book examines this connection, exploring key topics in the study of disease outbreaks and delving deep into specific historical and contemporary examples. From the Black Death that ravaged Europe in the 14th century to the influenza pandemic following World War I to the novel strain of coronavirus that made "social distancing" the new normal, wide-scale disease outbreaks have played an important role throughout human history. In addition to the toll they take on human lives, epidemics have spurred medical innovations, toppled governments, crippled economies, and led to cultural revolutions. Epidemics and Pandemics: From Ancient Plagues to Modern-Day Threats provides readers with a holistic view of the terrifying—and fascinating—topic of epidemics and pandemics. In Volume 1, readers will discover what an epidemic is, how it emerges and spreads, what diseases are most likely to become epidemics, and how disease outbreaks are tracked, prevented, and combated. They will learn about the impacts of such modern factors as global air travel and antibiotic resistance, as well as the roles played by public health agencies and the media. Volume 2 offers detailed case studies that explore the course and lasting significance of individual epidemics and pandemics throughout history. Examines the topic from a number of angles, offering readers a holistic view of how epidemics and pandemics have affected and continue to affect the world Explains the science behind the emergence and spread of disease in easy-to-understand, jargon-free language Considers issues relevant to today's readers, including the impact of the anti-vaccination movement, climate change, global travel, and antibiotic resistance Offers a detailed look at the most famous examples of epidemics and pandemics throughout history, using a standardized format that makes finding information quick and easy

Epidemics and Pandemics: From Ancient Plagues to Modern-Day Threats [2 volumes]

Balancing current and historical issues, this volume of essays covers the most significant worldwide epidemics from the Black Death to AIDS. • Each of the 50 essays includes a bibliography for further reading on each subject and is cross-referenced to help the reader put the material into context • Glossary defines terms such as pandemic, germ theory, and virgin soil epidemic • Visuals such as an illustration of a 17th-century costume worn to ward off the plague and a photo of a panicked father carrying a polio-stricken daughter dramatize the effect of epidemics • Maps illustrate the spread of major pandemics, such as influenza in 1918 • Sidebars feature source documents, such as an eyewitness account of the death of composer Frédéric Chopin or clergyman Cotton Mather's description of smallpox inoculation in 1721

Jo N. Hays

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