Microbiology is a pivotal subject in both MBBS and NEET PG preparation. It covers the fundamentals of infectious diseases, immunology, microbiological techniques, and the pathogenesis of diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.  

To help you master this subject effectively its crucial to pick the right books. Below, we have listed some of the best microbiology books for MBBS and NEET PG 2025, including popular texts like Essentials of Medical Microbiology by Apurba Sastry & Sandhya Bhat, Ananthanarayan and Paniker’s Textbook of Microbiology, and other each serving different purposes in terms of depth, focus and style.

Essentials of Medical Microbiology by Apurba Sastry & Sandhya Bhat 

Why it’s recommended: 

• This book is specifically designed for medical students and offers concise yet comprehensive overview of medical microbiology. It strikes a perfect balance between depth and brevity making it easier for first-year MBBS students to grasp core concepts. 

• Book includes well-structured chapters, illustrations and flowcharts that help break down complex topics.  

• The content is designed to be relevant for practical sessions in medical school with a strong focus on clinical applications and understanding the role of microbiology in diagnosing infectious diseases. 

• First year MBBS students and anyone seeking a foundational understanding of microbiology. 

Review of Microbiology and Immunology by Apurba Sastry & Sandhya Bhat 

Why its recommended: 

• It provides a comprehensive review of microbiology and immunology in a compact format. It’s a great resource for both MBBS students looking for a revision guide and for NEET PG aspirants aiming to consolidate their knowledge. 

• It simplifies complex concepts and explains them in an easy-to-understand language which makes it highly accessible to students at various levels of their education. 

• The inclusion of multiple-choice questions at the end of chapters allows students to test their understanding and prepare effectively for exams. 

• Best for NEET PG aspirants MBBS students in need of revision and anyone looking to consolidate microbiology and immunology Knowledge. 

Self-Assessment & Review Microbiology & Immunology by Rachna Chaurasia & Anshul Jain 

Why its recommended: 

• This book is ideal for self-assessment and periodic revision. With numerous MCQs and review questions, its helps students gauge their understanding and identify areas that need more focus. 

• The content is aligned with the exam syllabus making it perfect for NEET PG preparation. The book offers questions at the end chapter similar to the style of competitive exams.  

• Quick revision tool with key topics of microbiology and immunology making it perfect for last-minute revisions. 

Ananthanarayan and Paniker’s Textbook of Microbiology by R. Ananthanarayan and C.K. Jayaram Paniker  

Why its recommended: 

• Known as gold standard in microbiology with most comprehensive and authoritative textbooks on microbiology this book is a staple for MBBS students and is often regarded as the ‘Bible’ of microbiology in medical education. 

• It provides thorough explanations of microbiological concepts, from basic microbiology to immunology, virology, bacteriology, parasitology and mycology. 

• The textbook emphasizes the clinical relevance of microbiology, helping students connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in diagnosis and treatment. 

• Well organized chapters with extensive illustrations, flowcharts, and tables to help visualize and understand complex concepts. 

Key Features of these Books: 

How to Use These Books for Effective Preparation: 

For MBBS Students: 

1. Start with Essentials of Medical Microbiology book for solid foundation in microbiology. This book offers a clear and concise explanation of basic microbiological concepts. 
2. Once students grasped the basics move on to Textbook of Microbiology. It will provide you with more in-depth coverage of microbiology topics especially important for exams.  
3. Use Self-Assessment & Review Microbiology & Immunology for MCQ practice questions for better understanding of topics and preparedness. 

For NEET PG Aspirant: 

1. Master the basics preparing for NEET PG to have a strong grasp of the fundamentals with Essentials of Medical Microbiology and Review of Microbiology and Review of Microbiology and Immunology to build your foundation. 
2. Once you’re familiar with the basics, Ananthanarayan and Paniker’s Textbook provides detailed content and clinical correlations which will be helpful for higher-level exams. 
3. Use Self-Assessment & Review Microbiology & Immunology for regular MCQ practice which is essential for NEET PG. The more MCQs you solve the better prepared you’ll be for the exam. 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

1. Is microbiology important in MBBS?

Microbiology is usually taught to medical students as part of their preclinical curriculum, and the skills they acquire in this area are useful in both their clinical education and practise. It offers the cornerstone for comprehending the pathophysiology, aetiology, and treatment of infectious illnesses. 

2. Is Microbiologist a high paying job?

The estimated total pay for a Microbiologist is ₹21,400 per month, with an average salary of ₹20,000 per month. 

3. Is microbiology a good career?

Microbiology study is a lucrative route into science. A Microbiology degree can open up a number of career paths. Jobs related to a microbiology degree include Biomedical Scientist.