"An intelligent and compelling examination of the science of immunity, the public policy implications of vaccine denial, and the real-world outcomes of failing to vaccinate. If you have a child in school, you may have heard stories of long-dormant diseases suddenly reappearing--cases of measles, mumps, rubella, and whooping cough cropping up everywhere from elementary schools to Ivy League universities. How does a small group of people's failure to vaccinate have the potential to affect future generations? Are we at a turning point in medical history, where deadly diseases, once dormant, flourish anew? Will our children face summers of abandoned swimming pools due to polio outbreaks just like our great-grandparents did? Pioneering medical researcher Michael Kinch tells the remarkable story of vaccine-preventable infectious diseases in [this book], which explains how the science of immunity actually works and places immunology within the context of its social and political implications. While detailing the history of vaccine invention, from the steppes of Mongolia to the serendipitous connection between cowpox and smallpox, Kinch reveals the ominous reality that our victories against vaccine-preventable diseases are not permanent--and could easily be undone. ... Between Hope and Fear illuminates the fascinating intersection of science, technology, and disease that has helped eradicate many of the deadliest plagues known to man."--Jacket.

Pox Romana -- Vaccination & eradication -- Becoming defensive -- The wurst way to die -- Spreading like viruses -- A sense of humors -- Lost in translation -- Breathing easier -- Three little letters -- When future shocks become current affairs.