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The Death of a Disease: A History of the Eradication of Poliomyelitis
Author(s): Bernard Seytre (Editor), Mary Shaffer
- Publisher: Rutgers University Press
- Publication Date: 22 Aug. 2005
- Language: English
- Print length: 168 pages
- ISBN-10: 0813536766
- ISBN-13: 9780813536767
Book Description
In 1988, the World Health Organization launched a campaign for global eradication of polio. Today, this goal is closer than ever. Fewer than 2,000 people died from the disease in 2002, down from approximately 350,000 in 1988. In “”The Death of a Disease,”” science writers Bernard Seytre and Mary Shaffer tell the dramatic story of this crippling virus that has evoked terror among parents and struck down healthy children for centuries. Beginning in ancient Egypt, the narrative explores the earliest stages of research, describes the wayward paths taken by a long line of scientists – each of whom made a vital contribution to understanding this enigmatic virus – and traces the development of Salk and Sabin vaccines. The book also tracks the contemporary polio story, detailing the remaining obstacles as well as the medical, governmental, and international health efforts that are currently being focused developing countries such as India, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Niger. At a time when emerging diseases and the threat of bioterrorism are the focus of much media public attention, this book tells the story of a crippling disease that is on the verge of disappearing. In face of tremendous odds, the near-eradication of polio offers an inspiring story that is both encouraging instructive to those at the center of the continued fight against communicable diseases.
Editorial Reviews
Review
The Death of a Disease accurately portrays the inspiring fifty-year global effort to eradicate polio. – Donald Burke, M.D., Professor of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health “”This book is invaluable as an easy-to-read historical account of the successful battle against polio.”” – Dr. David L. Heymann, executive director of communicable diseases, World Health Organization
About the Author
Bernard Seytre is the author and coauthor of several books written in French. Mary Shaffer is a professional science writer. Both authors are based in Paris.
