An examination of the ebola virus, its African origins, and the development of this and other similar emerging diseases.

Traces the history of syphilis and other venereal diseases from the Middle Ages to modern times, discussing their causes, how they are spread, and methods of treatment and prevention.

Traces the history, current issues, and future of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, a rare genetic disorder that effects the brain and is part of the same group of illnesses as "mad cow disease."

Traces the history of botulism, what causes it, and how to prevent future outbreaks.

Examines the microscopic world of the parasites that cause sleeping sickness and explains the origin of tropical diseases and their history.

Describes a dangerous new strain of E. coli, called O157:H7, which appeared in 1982, how it is spread via contaminated meat, milk, vegetables, water, or person to person, the symptoms of the disease, and the methods used to handle outbreaks.