The Conquest of Viruses: A History of Viral Vaccines

This book guides through the fascinating history of viral vaccines, from the first primitive smallpox vaccination in the 18th century to the cutting-edge RSV formulation approved in 2023. Each chapter delves into the scientific, clinical, and social forces that led to the development of these life-saving medical innovations, highlighting the scientists who played pivotal roles. With a focus on making complex science accessible and history engaging, this book offers a comprehensive portrayal of virology, vaccinology and the interplay between science and society in shaping public health.

Readers will explore key concepts such as the evolution of vaccine technology over time, from cowpox material to mRNA vaccines, and a wide array of other topics, including the eradication of diseases through vaccines, the challenges of immunization against influenza, and the revolutionary impact of COVID-19 vaccination. The author, microbiologist Professor Wilson, provides expert analysis on how sociological factors influenced vaccine progress and gets to the bottom of the question of why there is still no vaccine for some critical diseases.

This book is a must-read for anyone with an interest in viruses and vaccines. Whether you’re a researcher or simply fascinated by medical history, this book promises to be both informative and entertaining.

Van G. Wilson is a Full Professor in the Department of Microbial and Molecular Pathogenesis in the College of Medicine at Texas A&M University Health Science Center since 1999, and also served 12 years as the college’s Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies. Van’s scientific career focused on viruses of the papovavirus group, including SV40, polyomaviruses, and papillomaviruses with funding from the NIH, the National Science Foundation, the American Cancer Society, and several other agencies. During that period Van published 71 scientific papers, 22 book chapters, 130 abstracts, and has edited 4 scientific books. Van has taught medical and graduate students for over 35 years and has lectured on his science around the world. Through these experiences, he has accumulated a broad, yet detailed, perspective about human-viruses interactions, from the molecular to the societal level. Van believes there are exciting, important, and interesting aspects of viral biologythat would be appealing and accessible to a general audience, and therefore he decided to create a book that is both educational and entertaining.