In this textbook a systematic, concise and up-to-date account of the main sections of micro­biology, virology and immunology are given. The description of separate caus­ative agents is presented in a certain sequence. First of all, the morphology and structure of microbes are given, followed by data on cultivation, enzyma­tic properties, antigen structure, classification, etc. Taxonomy and nomenclature of microorganisms are given in accordance with the Interna­tional Nomenclature accepted in Soviet periodical and mon­ographic literature. Tho morphology of microbes is described using the latest dnta on the structure of microbial cells obtained with the aid of light and electron microscopy and phase-contrast and luminescent microscopy of ultra-thin sections. The textbook contains now data on the morphology of viruses, on the micro flora of tho external environment, A section on fungi is systematised. The textbook is intended fur students of medical institutes.KIRILL PYATKIN, Doctor Medical Sciencos, Professor. Head of the Department Microbiology at Crimean  Medical Institute in Simleno  is the author of 78 published papers, 6 of which are monographs. His main works dedicated to the problems pathogenesis and immunity of diphtheria and are well known to scientists beyond the limits of the USSR. He has good experience as a teacher in higher institutions. He has published Lectures on General and Special Microbiology, Handbook of Practical Work in Medical Microbiology and other works for student of medical institutes. In the Soviet Union his text­ book has been reprinted twice. It has also been published in Spanish.Original Scan by Servants of Knowledge