COVID-19: Between Past and Present.

Area of Science:

• Virology and Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The 2019 declaration of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) spurred extensive research into its pathogenesis and treatment.
• Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of COVID-19, shares genetic similarities with SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV).

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of coronaviruses and their associated epidemics throughout the 21st century.
• To focus on the current COVID-19 pandemic, detailing its immunopathogenesis, diagnosis, prognosis, and available treatment options.
• To synthesize current clinical findings and understanding of COVID-19, despite the rapid pace of new discoveries.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on coronaviruses and COVID-19.
• Analysis of published clinical findings, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic strategies.
• Evaluation of the current evidence for various treatment options and immune-based therapies.

Main Results:

• Coronaviruses have caused significant epidemics in the 21st century, with COVID-19 being the most recent and widespread.
• Understanding of COVID-19's immunopathogenesis, diagnosis, and prognosis continues to evolve rapidly.
• While numerous therapeutic options are under investigation, none are currently registered for COVID-19 treatment, and immune-based therapies lack sufficient supporting data for widespread use outside clinical trials.

Conclusions:

• The review highlights the ongoing challenges in managing COVID-19 due to the lack of registered treatments.
• Strengthening the host immune system is emphasized as the most effective current defense strategy against COVID-19.
• Further research and clinical trials are crucial for developing effective treatments and immune-based therapies for COVID-19.