What are viruses? -- Viruses are everywhere -- Kill or be killed -- Emerging virus infections -- Epidemics and pandemics -- Persistent viruses -- Tumour viruses -- Turning the tables -- Viruses past, present, and future.

"Viruses are big news. From HIV to swine flu and SARS, we are constantly concerned about new lethal infections that may spread rapidly worldwide. In this Very Short Introduction, Dorothy H. Crawford looks at the nature of viruses and our perpetual struggle against them. Outlining their discovery, their structure, and their modes of infection, Crawford describes the challenges posed by these tiny parasites, which are abundant everywhere on Earth. Analysing the threat of emerging viral infections she discusses the evidence surrounding the link between long-term viruses and cancer. Looking to the future, she considers whether we can ever live in harmony with viruses, and the ways in which we may need to adapt to prevent the emergence of new viruses with devastating consequences."--Inside front cover.