"This book conveys readers through many of the most important epidemics in U.S. history. Stephen Gehibach unveils terrifying scenanios in which unknown diseases raged across the countryside, claiming lives as they went. Their names - yellow fever, smallpox, polio - evoke fear even today. This collection of narratives also introduces well-known characters who played pivotal and often controversial roles in the outbreaks and who were first to identify and begin the conquest of these dreaded plagues." "A fascinating account for the general reader as well as for public health, medical, nursing, and allied health students, American Plagues teaches important public health concepts."--Jacket.