Plagues & Poxes: The Impact of Human History on Epidemic Disease

"Plagues and Poxes: The Impact of Human History on Epidemic Disease" by Alfred Jay Bollet, M.D., examines the complex interactions between human societies and epidemic diseases throughout history. The book is structured into three main parts, focusing on infectious diseases, noninfectious diseases, and intentionally induced and newly emerging diseases. It delves into historical pandemics such as the Bubonic Plague, Yellow Fever, and the 1918 Influenza Pandemic, along with diseases like Scurvy and Pellagra that arose from dietary deficiencies. Additionally, it addresses the rise of bioterrorism and the impact of technological and social changes on disease spread and emergence. Bollet emphasizes the role of human actions, both intentional and unintentional, in the spread and mitigation of diseases, offering insights into how history has shaped our understanding and response to health crises.