By Brian T. Ho, Brenda A. Wilson
Revenge of the Microbes

In the battle against infectious diseases, antibiotics have been our greatest weapon. They have saved countless lives and revolutionized modern medicine. However, there is an enemy lurking in the shadows, threatening to undo the progress we have made. That enemy is antibiotic resistance.

Revenge of the Microbes: How Bacterial Resistance Is Undermining the Antibiotic Miracle, written by Brian T. Ho and Brenda A. Wilson, has been a crucial resource in understanding the looming threat of antibiotic resistance since its first edition two decades ago. Now, in its updated second edition, the authors delve even deeper into the intricacies of this antibiotic-microbe arms race and shed light on the urgent need for alternative approaches to combating infections.

The book begins with a historical perspective on the impact of antibiotics on modern medicine and society. It provides a comprehensive review of our current arsenal against infectious diseases and the various ways in which pathogens evade or overcome them. The authors discuss the practices and policies driving the discovery and development of new antibiotics, as well as the environmental consequences of antibiotic release. They also explore how antibiotic-resistant bacteria evolve and spread, painting a sobering picture of the challenges we face in this battle.

One of the strengths of Revenge of the Microbes is its ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience. The authors strike the perfect balance between scientific rigor and reader-friendly language, ensuring that both scientists and non-scientists can engage with the material. Each chapter is accompanied by “Points to Ponder,” thought-provoking questions that encourage readers to think critically about the issues at hand.

This book is not just a dry scientific analysis; it is a call to action. The authors highlight the controversies surrounding antibiotics and emphasize the need for informed decision-making when it comes to antibiotic usage and stewardship. Revenge of the Microbes empowers readers to become citizen scientists, policy makers, and advocates for responsible antibiotic use.

Reviews of this book have been overwhelmingly positive. Jean B. Patel, a Principle Scientist at Beckman Coulter and former Science Team Lead at the CDC, praises the authors for their approachable and comprehensive view of antimicrobial resistance. She highlights the “Points to Ponder” sections as particularly valuable, even for those with extensive knowledge in the field.

Revenge of the Microbes is essential reading for anyone interested in the topic of antimicrobial resistance. Whether you are a scientist, clinician, educator, student, lawyer, environmentalist, or public health advocate, this book will provide you with a 360-degree view of the antibiotic resistance crisis. It equips you with the knowledge and understanding necessary to contribute to the fight against antibiotic resistance.

If you are concerned about the future of medicine and the threat posed by antibiotic resistance, Revenge of the Microbes is a must-read. It will inspire you to take action and join the global effort to preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics.

Product Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ ASM Press; 2nd edition (April 25, 2023)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• eBook Digital ‏ : ‎ 176 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1683670086
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1683670087

Order your copy of Revenge of the Microbes today and become an informed advocate in the fight against antibiotic resistance.