It's time to examine the human history of viruses, vaccines, and antiviral drugs...Public response to the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that misinformation about viruses is widespread. Vaccine skepticism is rampant, and many people have been quick to accept bogus claims unsupported by science. In his latest book, Jie Jack Li sets the record straight by revealing the science and history behind antiviral drugs. Conquest of Invisible Enemies: A Human History of Antiviral Drugs guides readers through the history of viruses, vaccinations, and treatments. Readers learn about the discovery of viruses and diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). The first chapter takes an expansive look at how viruses have shaped human history. Subsequent chapters narrow in on specific viruses, diseases, and drug treatments. For example, chapter four, on influenza, looks at the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, the history of vaccination efforts, and influenza drugs and vaccines today. Chapter five, on coronaviruses, considers drug treatments for SARS, MERS, and SARS-CoV-2. It also discusses the development of COVID-19 vaccines and drugs. Conquest of Invisible Enemies: A Human History of Antiviral Drugs focuses on the human drama behind drug discovery. Written in an engaging and accessible style, Li's timely book dispels common misconceptions about viruses and treatments and places the COVID-19 pandemic in historical context.
