The New Coronavirus COVID-19 Infection

M R Bevova1, S V Netesov2, Yu S Aulchenko2,3

  • 1University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium.

Insights

The novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, caused the COVID-19 pandemic starting in late 2019. This review covers its origin, spread, diagnosis, and treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 marked the beginning of a global health crisis.
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) officially named the disease COVID-19 and the virus SARS-CoV-2 in early 2020.
  • By March 2020, COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, affecting 114 countries with over 118,000 cases and 4,000 deaths.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the COVID-19 disease.
  • To summarize key information regarding the origin, epidemiology, diagnostics, and clinical management of COVID-19.
  • To consolidate current knowledge for researchers and healthcare professionals.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific publications and official reports on SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19.
  • Synthesis of data on the virus's origin, transmission patterns, and global spread.
  • Compilation of information on diagnostic methods, clinical manifestations, and therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

  • Detailed account of SARS-CoV-2 emergence and rapid global dissemination.
  • Summary of epidemiological data, including case numbers and mortality rates.
  • Overview of diagnostic tools and current treatment approaches for COVID-19 patients.

Conclusions:

  • SARS-CoV-2 rapidly evolved into a global pandemic with significant health and societal impact.
  • Understanding the virus's origin, spread, and clinical course is crucial for effective control and treatment.
  • Ongoing research is vital for developing improved diagnostics and therapeutics for COVID-19.

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