Third in a series highlighting early 20th-century disease, this fascinating account merges the chronology of medical advancement with the social, cultural, and political history of the Bubonic plague. Opening chapters describe early accounts of plague from 542 through the 1800s, and advances in plague research and vaccines. Much of the volume focuses on the plague’s arrival in San Francisco in 1900, and the efforts to contain its spread via quarantine, disposal of infected persons’ belongings, rat eradication, and vaccination, with racism and politics playing a large role in public perception of the threat. The final chapters address the more recent spread of plague into the American Southwest, as well as its current prevalence in Africa. Significant back matter includes FAQs, a timeline, glossary, further sources of information, and source notes. (Age 12 and older)

Uncover the true story of America's first plague epidemic in 1900 in this book is perfect to share with young readers looking for a historical perspective of the Covid-19/Coronavirus pandemic that recently gripped the world.

In March 1900, San Francisco's health department investigated a strange and horrible death in Chinatown. A man had died of bubonic plague, one of the world's deadliest diseases. But how could that be possible? Acclaimed author and scientific expert Gail Jarrow brings the history of a medical mystery to life in vivid and exciting detail for young readers. She spotlights the public health doctors who desperately fought to end it, the political leaders who tried to keep it hidden, and the brave scientists who uncovered the plague's secrets. This title includes photographs and drawings, a glossary, a timeline, further resources, an author's note, and source notes.