Several billion people are at daily risk of life-threatening vector-borne diseases such as malaria, trypanosomiasis and dengue. This volume describes the way in which the causal pathogens of such diseases interact with the vectors that transmit them, detailing the biological adaptations that enable pathogens to live with their vectors and, in some circumstances, to control them. This knowledge has led to novel preventative strategies in the form of antibiotics and new vaccines which are targeted not at the pathogen itself but at its specific vector.

Recombinant Poxviruses provides a comprehensive examination of poxviruses with an emphasis on the potential of these viruses as new vaccines. The book considers a wide range of issues involved in producing new genetically engineered live vaccines, such as efficacy, safety, stability, cost, host range, immune response, immunization route, use of multivalent vaccines, and need for revaccination. The opening chapter describes the origin of vaccinia virus, its use to eradicate smallpox, and the pathogenesis of poxvirus infections. Subsequent chapters examine the molecular biology of poxviruses,...