Viruses: A Very Short Introduction

Viruses are a significant threat, as the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated. This Very Short Introduction provides a comprehensive account of their nature, attack methods, and control efforts. Dorothy H. Crawford explores the recent rise in emerging virus infections, including coronaviruses, and the revolution in vaccine production. The book also considers preventative measures and management of future dangerous viruses.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 27 October 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Viruses, as exemplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, are omnipresent and cannot be disregarded. This Very Short Introduction offers a comprehensive and concise overview of viruses, their modes of attack, and the ongoing efforts to mitigate their impact. In this revised edition, Dorothy H. Crawford delves into the recent surge in emerging virus infections, particularly coronaviruses, including the viruses responsible for SARS and MERS, as well as the novel SARS-CoV-2 strain that caused the COVID-19 pandemic. Crawford explores the factors that enabled SARS-CoV-2 to rapidly escalate into a global pandemic, while other viruses have resulted in localized outbreaks. Additionally, she examines the transformative impact of the rapid development of vaccines in response to this crisis. Looking ahead, this Very Short Introduction examines preventative measures and strategies for managing future dangerous viruses that are anticipated to emerge.

The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press boasts an extensive collection of titles across nearly every subject domain. These compact books are ideal for swiftly gaining expertise in a new field. Our esteemed authors employ a combination of facts, analysis, perspective, innovative ideas, and infectious enthusiasm to render complex and intriguing topics highly accessible and engaging.

Weight: 122g
Dimension: 111 x 174 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192865069
Edition number: 3 Revised edition