those who deal with infectious diseases on a daily This two volume work stems from the belief of the Editors that infectious diseases are not only very basis. much with us today but, more importantly, that they There are several excellent textbooks dealing will continue to playa significant global role in mor­ with medical microbiology, and there are equally well-recognized books devoted to infectious dis­ bidity and mortality in all people. A continuing need for an informed and knowledgeable community of eases. The Editors of this work, on the other hand, laboratory scientists is fundamental. Data describing were persuaded that there was a need for a