Melloy P. Viruses and Society 2023

Textbook in PDF format

Viruses and Society is geared towards professionals and students in college-level introductory biology courses devoted to understanding viruses, vaccines, and their global impact. The beginning of the book introduces cells, DNA, and viruses themselves. There follows a review of how the immune system works and how scientists and physicians harness the immune system to protect people through vaccines. Specific chapters will focus on the 1918 influenza pandemic, the fight to eradicate polio, the HIV/AIDS pandemic, and our current COVID-19 crisis. Additionally, the book reviews the uses of viruses in genetic engineering and in gene therapy as well. The book will conclude by describing public health initiatives to keep emerging viruses in check and the role of scientific communication in how viruses are perceived and have an impact on our society.
Introduction to Cells, DNA, and Viruses
An Introduction to the Immune System and Vaccines
The 1918 Influenza A Pandemic
Poliovirus
HIV/AIDS
SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19
Recombinant DNA Technology and Gene Therapy Using Viruses
Public Health and Viruses
Science Communication and Viruses