Recommended “Textbook”:      The only reason I do not require this book is because it has not been updated.

The book is not a traditional textbook. 

The book is called “Killer Germs” by Barry E. Zimmerman and David J. Zimmerman.  It was published in 2002 by McGraw-Hill.  ISBN number: 978-0071409261.  A paperback copy OR Kindle edition could be used (you do NOT need to purchase both). 

The only reason I do not require this book is because it has not been updated.  Otherwise, it is a great book that covers diverse pathogens and historical background.