Medical microbiology may overlap with parasitology, generally considered the study of diseases caused by multi-cellular parasites, where a parasite is defined as an organism that derives its nutrients from another living organisms, often but not always to the detriments of its host. Microbes are continually probing our defences and commensals that get into the wrong place can do untold damage. A very small minority of microbes are primary pathogens. These are capable of infecting individuals and causing disease.

This book is a concise and accessible guide to the field of microbiology and infection. It is made-up of eight solid chapters along with other relevant material which cover all area of the subject.

The book takes the reader through the underlying concepts, mechanisms and principles of medical microbiology. It introduces the nature of microbes and describes the general properties of different microbial groups. It discusses, the clinical manifestations, diagnoses, treatment of some important infectious diseases and provides information about the structure and functions of immune system. Medical relevance is emphasised throughout the book. It is written at a level appropriate for both medical students, physicians, teachers and infectious disease scientists.