In the past 25 years, more than 30 new germs affecting humans have emerged onto the medical scene, most of them rising from animals. New diseases like the avian flu, Ebola, SARS, and weaponized viruses such as anthrax and smallpox pose a growing danger to the world. With the threat of infectious diseases remaining constant, it is essential to have clear and concise information on this topic. ""The A to Z of Infectious Diseases"" provides more than 600 up-to-date entries covering the latest research, new treatments and vaccines, and rising diseases such as mad cow disease. Appendixes include drugs used to treat infectious diseases, tips for home disinfection, and lists of helpful organizations and publications, making this the ultimate resource for knowledge about infectious diseases. Topics include: Animals and infectious diseases, Food safety and natural disasters, Influenza, Lung and respiratory infections, Neonatal infections, Parasitic infections, Stomach and intestinal infections, Terrorist-related infectious diseases, Treatments and diagnosis, and, Vaccines and immunizations.