Infectious Disease Research

Gr 6–8—This is a general overview of not just infectious diseases, but also of related research such as the refinement of the microscope in 1670, the inception of vaccines in 1796, and the seminal formulation of various medical theories. Allman discusses infectious disease in three distinct areas: identification and diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Highlighting the work of individual scientists throughout history, such as the legacy of World Health Organization's Carlo Urbani, who died in 2003 as a direct result of treating patients infected with SARS influenza, the book heralds the ongoing research of many notable scientists past and present. The author remains unbiased, utilizing a journalistic writing style coupled with vivid scientific photos in order to elucidate principles of microbiology. A time line spanning six centuries earmarks significant advances and events while color-coded text boxes highlight terms (in gold) and supplemental information (in blue). Modules in biology, health, current events, and social studies can be feasibly built around this informative source of core reading material.—Kathryn Diman, Bass Harbor Memorial Library, Bernard, ME