Deadliest Enemy: Our War Against Killer Germs

Infectious diseases pose a unique global threat, capable of disrupting everyday life worldwide and overwhelming public and private resources in ways that natural disasters and individual illnesses cannot. Modern advances in transportation and infrastructure, while efficient, have made epidemics and pandemics nearly inevitable. Recent outbreaks of Ebola, MERS, yellow fever, and Zika have revealed significant gaps in preparedness and response capabilities. Drawing on medical science, case studies, policy research, and epidemiological lessons, this book examines the resources and programs needed to protect against infectious disease threats. It addresses scenarios where many antibiotics no longer work, bioterrorism becomes a real threat, and dangerous influenza pandemics become increasingly likely. The book combines scientific analysis, medical case studies, assessment of current challenges, and practical recommendations for action to help prevent catastrophic disease outbreaks.