Viruses: A Natural History

Viruses are microscopic parasites that exist in and on everything, everywhere. They are rapidly evolving and can be beneficial or harmful, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Viruses expert Marilyn Roossinck presents a comprehensive and richly illustrated introduction to viruses in Viruses, covering their diversity, behaviors, life cycles, and impact on ecosystems. The book is written in a nontechnical and easy-to-follow style, with stunning illustrations highlighting key viruses. Understanding viruses is essential for animal, plant, and global health.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2023
Publisher: Princeton University Press

Viruses, microscopic parasites that exist in and on everything, everywhere, are rapidly evolving and highly opportunistic. While some viruses cause diseases, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, others can be beneficial, protecting hosts from other microbes or enabling them to function in extraordinary ways. In Viruses, virus expert and author Marilyn Roossinck presents a comprehensive and richly illustrated introduction to viruses, revealing their true nature.

The book explores the diversity, behaviors, life cycles, and essential aspects of viruses, written in a nontechnical and accessible style. It covers topics such as what viruses are, their origins, transmission, evolution, the battle between viruses and hosts, immunity and vaccination, viruses that are good for us, their role in ecosystems, the factors that make viruses pandemic in plants or animals, and the latest research discovering thousands of new viruses.

Each chapter concludes with stunningly illustrated profiles that highlight key viruses. In a world where understanding viruses is crucial for animal, plant, and global health, Viruses offers a rich and inviting introduction to these fascinating organisms.

Weight: 1148g
Dimension: 195 x 254 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691237596