Includes bibliographical references (pages 417-418).

"In this electrifying new medical thriller from New York Times bestseller Robin Cook, a family's exposure to a rare yet deadly virus puts them at the center of a terrifying danger to mankind--and pulls back the curtain on a healthcare system powered by greed and corruption"--

Brian Murphy and his family are enjoying a relaxing summer excursion in Cape Cod when his wife, Emma, comes down with mild flu-like symptoms. Their return home to New York City quickly turns into a race to the ER as she begins seizing and falls into a coma. Emma is diagnosed with Eastern Equine Encephalitis, a rare and highly lethal mosquito-borne viral disease caught during one of their evening cookouts-- and their daughter exhibits alarming signs of the same illness. A harrowing hospital stay turns even more fraught when Brian receives a staggering hospital bill full of outrageous charges and murky language. The insurance company won't cover the cost, citing dubious clauses in Brian's policy. Brian vows to seek justice, but must uncover the dark side of a historically ruthless industry-- and bring down the callous executives preying on the sick and defenseless before the virus can claim more lives.-- adapted from jacket