51 pages • 1 hour read
The Coming Plague: Newly Emerging Diseases in a World Out of Balance
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Book Brief
750
Book • Nonfiction
Global • Late 20th Century
1994
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Coming Plague by Laurie Garrett examines infectious disease outbreaks of the mid-to-late 20th century, analyzing the underlying social, biological, and ecological factors that contribute to epidemic transmissions. It highlights challenges in global public health, from optimistic efforts to eradicate diseases like smallpox to the grim realities of combating resilient viruses like AIDS and Ebola. The book illustrates how human actions and ecological disruptions prompt microbial responses, emphasizing the need to understand our ecological role to mitigate future outbreaks. Note: The book discusses severe health crises and the suffering of affected individuals.
Informative
Mysterious
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
12,232 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Garrett's The Coming Plague is lauded for its thorough research, vivid storytelling, and insightful analysis of global health issues. Readers appreciate its engaging narrative and educational value. However, some criticize the book for being dense and occasionally overwhelming in detail. Overall, it is a compelling and informative read for those interested in epidemiology and public health.
Who Should Read The Coming Plague?
Readers fascinated by public health, epidemiology, and medical history would find Laurie Garrett's The Coming Plague compelling. Comparable to Richard Preston's The Hot Zone and John M. Barry's The Great Influenza, this book appeals to those interested in the battles against infectious diseases and emerging pathogens.
12,232 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
A US public health agency headquartered in Atlanta that plays a pivotal role in detecting emerging disease threats and conducting field research. The agency's efforts to respond to global health crises, despite bureaucratic challenges, are central to its operations.
World Health Organization (WHO)
World Health Organization (WHO)
The United Nations' global health agency based in Geneva responsible for promoting health standards and monitoring emerging threats worldwide. It is portrayed as being hindered by international politics, requiring host country invitations to intervene in health crises.
Karl Johnson
Karl Johnson
A doctor who first encountered the Machupo virus and later worked with the CDC on Ebola and hantaviruses. Johnson's leadership and calm demeanor greatly contributed to the success of global disease response teams.
750
Book • Nonfiction
Global • Late 20th Century
1994
Adult
18+ years
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