This definitive and comprehensive account of the human herpes viruses provides an encyclopedic overview of their basic virology and clinical manifestations. This group of viruses includes human simplex type 1 and 2, Epstein Barr virus, cytomegalovirus and varicella-zoster virus. The diseases they cause are significant and often recurrent. Their prevalence in the developed world accounts for a major burden of disease, and as a result there is a great deal of research into the pathophysiology if infection and immunobiology. Another important area covered within this volume concerns antiviral therapy and the development of vaccines. All these aspects are covered in depth and the volume is fully up to date both scientifically and in terms of clinical guidelines for patient care. The text is generously illustrated throughout and fully referenced to the latest research and developments.