COVID-19 pandemic: A review based on current evidence

Area of Science:

• Virology and Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) in December 2019 led to a global pandemic of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
• COVID-19 manifests with a spectrum of clinical symptoms, from asymptomatic to severe multi-organ failure and death.
• High transmission rates necessitate urgent therapeutic and preventive strategies to control the spread and impact of the virus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and preventive measures for COVID-19.
• To explore therapeutic strategies, including drug repurposing, combination therapies, vaccine therapy, and convalescent plasma therapy.
• To highlight ethical considerations and challenges, particularly for developing nations like India.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on COVID-19 research.
• Analysis of existing data on drug repurposing, considering pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic and toxicity profiles.
• Examination of various therapeutic approaches and public health interventions.

Main Results:

• Drug repurposing is a feasible strategy due to established drug profiles.
• Multiple therapeutic avenues, including vaccines and convalescent plasma, are being investigated.
• Ethical preparedness and resource allocation are critical challenges, especially in developing countries.

Conclusions:

• A multi-faceted approach combining preventive measures and diverse therapeutic strategies is crucial for managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Continued research into drug repurposing, vaccine development, and novel therapies is essential.
• Addressing ethical and logistical challenges is vital for effective global pandemic response.