Beginning of the treatise on epidemic and plague by Lord Valastus of Taranto, most excellent doctor of the arts and medicine

As a remedy for the storm of the human race caused by epidemic diseases, I have decided, for the honor of God and the glorious Virgin, and so that a candle may not be hidden under a bushel a biblical reference to Matthew 5:15, to insert salutary remedies into a little book. For those reading it and operating according to it, it will bring a certain measure of security, or rather, with God's help, a perfect security against epidemic diseases. And because Seneca Roman philosopher (c. 4 BC – AD 65) relates that it is best to follow the footsteps of others, I have designed these, not trusting in my own small powers, to imitate those wise actors. I beseech the reader of this little book with a humble and reverent countenance to receive it with blessed grace and love, not corroding it with envious rage. And if there are things less well reported, treat them kindly with charity and love by interpreting them and leading them to a better understanding.

Chapter One: How, from which causes, and at what time an epidemic is caused.

Chapter Two: On the prognostic and indicative signs of an epidemic.

Chapter Three: On preservation from an epidemic through the correction of the air and departure from the place in which it is present.

Chapter Four: On preservation from an epidemic through evacuation.

Chapter Five: On preservation from an epidemic through food and drink.

Chapter Six: On the preservation of exercise in an epidemic.

Chapter Seven: On the preservation of sleep and waking in an epidemic.

Chapter Eight: On the preservation of the affections of the soul and sexual intercourse in an epidemic.