Humans and pathogens have a complex relationship from "summary" of An Unnatural History of Emerging Infections by Ron Barrett,George Armelagos (the late)
The relationship between humans and pathogens is a multifaceted one, characterized by a constant struggle for survival on both sides. Pathogens, in their quest to replicate and spread, have evolved various mechanisms to evade our immune defenses and exploit our bodies for their own benefit. Meanwhile, humans have developed complex immune systems to detect and eliminate these invaders, but pathogens are often able to outsmart these defenses through mutation and adaptation. One of the key factors that contribute to the complexity of this relationship is the sheer diversity of pathogens that exist in the world. From viruses to bacteria to fungi, each type of pathogen presents unique challenges to human health, requiring different strategies for prevention and treatment. Furthermore, the environments in which these pathogens thrive are equally diverse, ranging from tropical rainforests to densely populated urban centers, making it difficult to predict where the next emerging infection w...
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