This book explains, in non-technical terms, the relationship between man
and the many bacteria, viruses and other micro-organisms with whom he
lives in the most intimate manner throughout his existence.
It is explained that for the most part, this coexistence is beneficial,
but that through evolution and natural selection, some bacteria, viruses
and other micro-organisms may become aggressive to the host in which
they live and that others may become aggressive as a result of mutation
through other species.
This aggressiveness manifests itself through the diseases which afflict
man and all that is living.
The cause and nature of those diseases which have been most devastating
for human society and which have greatly influenced the course of
history are portrayed in this book, as are the means by which the spread
of infections may be controlled before they progress to become epidemics
and pandemics.