Kill Switch

From the fall of empires to the rise of global health, Dr. Richard Burt’s Kill Switch reveals how viruses have shaped human history—and what we must learn to protect our future.
Viruses are the invisible architects of life and human history. From ancient plagues to modern pandemics, they have shaped civilizations, altered wars, and redefined medicine. Kill Switch takes you on a riveting journey through the history of viral outbreaks, revealing how these microscopic invaders have influenced everything from who we are to the fall of empires to the rise of global health initiatives—and how they ultimately led to COVID-19.
Written by renowned physician and scientist Dr. Richard Burt, this book provides a fascinating look at the intersection of science, history, and public health. Dr. Burt unpacks the story of viruses through gripping historical narratives, groundbreaking medical discoveries, and the critical lessons we must learn.
In Kill Switch, you’ll learn:
- How viruses shaped human history and determined the rise and fall of empires. - How viruses affect global policy and economics. - The hidden connections between medical breakthroughs and disease. - How governments, scientists, and the public have responded to viral threats. - How history chauffeured us to where we are. - How good intentions go wrong. - Why COVID 19 is so controversial.
With engaging storytelling and a cutting-edge detective story, Kill Switch is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the power of viruses and their impact on our world.
Are we doomed to repeat history, or can we adapt to safeguard our future?

DR. RICHARD K. BURT is a Fulbright Scholar, CEO of Genani Biotechnology, a tenured retired Professor at Northwestern, and current Scripps faculty. He pioneered America’s first hematopoietic stem cell transplant for autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and scleroderma. Dr Burt has seven United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) patents on using induced pluripotent stem (IPS) cells for aging and degenerative diseases.
Dr. Burt was awarded Leukemia Scholar of America, the Lupus Foundation of America Fidelitas Award, the van Bekkum Award by the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT), the Distinguished Clinical Achievement Award by the Clinical Research Forum, the EBMT Clinical Achievement Award, and the “Keys to the Vatican” in Rome. He has spoken at numerous conferences, universities, and institutions. Hospitals worldwide offer his stem cell protocols to patients.
Dr. Burt was recognized by Science Illustrated for accomplishing one of the Top 10 medical breakthroughs and by Scientific American as one of the Top 50 individuals for improving humanity and outstanding leadership. Dr Burt has written 150 medical / science articles, four medical textbooks, and two lay books: Everyday Miracles and Kill Switch.