Chronicles the discovery of American hookworm disease in the American South by scientist Charles Stiles, and discusses Stiles's work to implement public health standards to eradicate the disease. Explores the factors that led to people being infected with hookworm, and examines its affect on society during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Includes color and black-and-white photographs, a timeline, a glossary, and additional resources.

Vampire -- Worm scientist -- Unlocking secrets -- The laziness germ : all about hookworms -- Battling Necator -- "Skidoo, hookworm" -- Hookworm socials -- The privy problem -- A curse is lifted -- The bloodsucker lives on.