Abstract
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title> <jats:p>The second edition of this acclaimed textbook presents a timely and authoritative exploration of health security and public health protection as foundational pillars of national resilience. It illustrates their vital role in safeguarding socio-economic stability, environmental sustainability, and population wellbeing. Written in clear, accessible language, the book focuses on the three core domains of health protection: Communicable Disease Control; Emergency Preparedness, Resilience and Response (EPRR); and Environmental Public Health. While health protection remains the central theme, the book expands the conversation to encompass the broader concept of health security—addressing a spectrum of cumulative and concurrent risks that extend beyond traditional boundaries. This second edition builds on the success of the first by advancing the ‘all-hazards’ approach and integrating insights from frontline professionals. All chapters have been revised, with new content on COVID-19, international health regulations, occupational health, screening, radiation, environmental public health, and strategic preparedness for future pandemics, contributing to the evolving definition and practice of health security. Designed for health protection practitioners, students, clinicians, and allied professionals, the book offers a practical guide to managing real-world incidents. Readers are led through staged case studies that mirror the progression of actual public health events, supported by quick-reference action checklists (SIMCARDs) for use in high-pressure scenarios. Additional chapters delve into the principles, tools, and emerging challenges in health protection, while a comprehensive set of disease- and hazard-specific checklists provides actionable guidance for both specialists and non-specialists. With its unique blend of theory, practice, and lived experience, this book delivers an indispensable resource on Communicable Diseases, EPRR, and Environmental Public Health—offering insights rarely found elsewhere.</jats:p>