CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 150 x 230 mm
Pages: 220
Bind: Paperback
Author: Robert G. Webster
Publisher: Otago University Press

Flu Hunter is a critically acclaimed book that explores the intricate world of influenza viruses and their devastating potential. Written by renowned virologist Dr. Robert G. Webster, this enlightening title delves into the historical context of pandemics, particularly the infamous 1918 Spanish influenza pandemic. With meticulous research and profound insights, Fluent Hunter offers readers a gripping portrayal of the tenacious scientific efforts involved in understanding the evolution of the influenza virus.

Dive into the scientific detective story that chronicles Dr. Webster's journey, beginning in the 1960s, as he investigated the connection between wild aquatic birds and human influenza outbreaks. This important work focuses on a pivotal question: How do influenza viruses jump from birds to humans? The book reveals groundbreaking findings, including the exhumation of bodies from the Arctic permafrost to extract genetic materials from the virus.

With 220 pages of riveting content, Flu Hunter not only educates about potential future influenza pandemics but also serves as a call to action. Dr. Webster's forewarning that another global outbreak is not a matter of 'if,' but 'when,' makes this book an essential read for anyone concerned about public health. Get your copy of this indispensable resource today.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, customs duty or tax.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 150 x 230 mm
Pages: 220
Bind: paperback
Author: Robert G. Webster Publisher: Otago University Press


When a new influenza virus emerges that is able to be transmitted between humans, it spreads globally as a pandemic, often with high mortality. Enormous social disruption and substantial economic cost can result. The 1918 Spanish influenza pandemic was undoubtedly the most devastating influenza pandemic to date, and it has been Dr Robert Webster’s life’s work to figure out how and why. In so doing he has made a remarkable contribution to our understanding of the evolution of influenza viruses and how to control them. A century on, Flu Hunter is a gripping account of the tenacious scientific detective work involved in revealing the secrets of this killer virus. Dubbed ‘Flu Hunter’ by Smithsonian Magazine in 2006, Dr Webster began his research in the early 1960s with the insight that the natural ecology of most influenza viruses is among wild aquatic birds. Painstaking tracking and testing of thousands of birds eventually led him and the other scientists involved to establish a link between these bird virus ‘reservoirs’ and human influenza pandemics. Some of this fascinating scientific work involved exhuming bodies of Spanish flu victims from the Arctic permafrost in a search for tissue samples containing genetic material from the virus. Could a global influenza pandemic occur again? Webster’s warning is clear: ‘... it is not only possible, it is just a matter of when.’

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.