COVID-19: An Insight on the Third Respiratory Global Emergency of the Century

Abstract

Introduction: COVID-19 presents a global emergency in recent days and as a consequence, the whole world is in a state of war. Continuous efforts by researchers are being made to establish a sound scientific understanding regarding the behavior of the virus and its pathogenesis. Background: In recent days, a lot of scientific data are published describing viral transfusion into host cells, compared with SARS-CoV-1, viability of SARS-CoV-2, fatality and diagnosis of infection among infected patients, thereby, motivating to make right decisions in order to treat and mitigate COVID-19. Review Results: Coronaviruses usually affect the respiratory tract and produce symptoms similar to pneumonia with varied complications. The spike protein on the surface of the virus makes the SARSCoV- 2 phylogenetically different from other viruses of the corona family. SARS-CoV-2 has an affinity to angiotensin converting enzyme-2 receptors present on human cells. The fatality of the disease is found to be low, but the severity of the disease might vary from person to person. The incubation period is 14 days but the symptoms like dry cough and high fever are evident around 3-7 days. Already known anti-inflammatory immunomodulators and antiviral drugs are being tested and still under clinical trials. Conclusion: In this review, we are providing an insight into emergence of COVID-19 , its correlation with SARS-CoV-1 and the interpretation of global data representing the severity of unexpected dangers for humanity. Certain structural aspects and studies determining the viability of novel coronavirus have also been described. Moreover, case studies of recovered infected patients from COVID-19 explain the progression and patients’ pathophysiological conditions while suffering from the infection. Clinical Significance: There are many current strategies which are being tried and practiced to overcome this pandemic disease apart from precautionary measures. Although now, some decline has been seen, but the question still remains the same of whether the scientists are approaching towards the clinical solution, or are still in the midstream. This requires more study and intensive research to finally come to a concrete conclusion.