The King of Terrors is more prevalent today than at any time throughout history. In seven major cholera pandemics beginning in 1817, hundreds of thousands of people have died. Although called The disease of filth, the deadly effects of cholera spared no one, no matter their station in life.

This book presents a chronological depiction of the disease by those who suffered its ravages, using their own words from hundreds of newspapers and letters whenever possible. In so doing, the speculations, missteps, sidetracks and prevailing fears are emphasised. The authors describe the agonisingly slow march of progress toward discovering the causes and the treatment of symptoms. Along the way, the heroes of past and present are introduced: men and women who fought for their beliefs-at times against vitriolic and powerful opponents, including the medical authorities of their day.