"The Panic Virus" refers to the widespread fear and misinformation surrounding vaccines, particularly the false claim that they cause autism. This notion gained traction after a 1998 study by Andrew Wakefield, which has since been discredited. The resulting panic led to decreased vaccination rates and outbreaks of preventable diseases. The book "The Panic Virus" by Seth Mnookin explores the origins of this fear and its impact on public health. It highlights how misinformation can spread rapidly, influencing parents' decisions and contributing to a growing distrust in the medical community and public health initiatives.