This work examines the emergence and causes of new diseases all over the world, describing a process called "spillover" where illness originates in wild animals before being passed to humans and discusses the potential for the next huge pandemic. The emergence of strange new diseases is a frightening problem that seems to be getting worse. In this age of speedy travel, it threatens a worldwide pandemic.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Pale horse --Thirteen gorillas -- Everything comes from somewhere -- Dinner at the rat farm -- The deer, the parrot, and the kid next door -- Going viral -- Celestial hosts -- The chimp and the river -- It depends.