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.

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.

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.

- The Coming Plague was based on Laurie Garrett’s extensive interviews and on-the-ground research, spanning more than a decade of work in over 30 countries worldwide.
- The book highlights Garrett’s career shift from a National Public Radio (NPR) science correspondent to an acclaimed author who received a Pulitzer Prize for her journalism in subsequent years.

**Laurie Garrett**  
An award-winning journalist and author known for her in-depth reporting on public health issues and her ability to connect complex factors related to disease spread. She is notable for writing extensively on the interactions between microbiology, epidemiology, and global health dynamics.

**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)**  
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**  
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.

Laurie Garrett

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Introduction-Chapter 3

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Chapters 4-8

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Chapters 9-12

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Chapters 13-17

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The Coming Plague: Newly Emerging Diseases in a World Out of Balance

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