Novel coronavirus- A comprehensive review

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The recent coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) has caused global concern, affecting millions worldwide.
• Lack of vaccines and specific antivirals, coupled with asymptomatic carriers, challenges containment efforts.
• COVID-19 exhibits milder symptoms than SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV but poses life-threatening risks to vulnerable populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize existing studies on COVID-19 published by March 2020.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of the natural history, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for COVID-19.
• To aid healthcare professionals in managing the ongoing pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Review of relevant scientific literature published up to March 2020.
• Synthesis of information on COVID-19's epidemiology, clinical presentation, and diagnostic methods.
• Analysis of current and proposed treatment and intervention strategies.

Main Results:

• COVID-19's mild presentation in most cases, contrasted with severe outcomes in vulnerable individuals.
• Challenges in primary healthcare due to asymptomatic carriers and the need for specific diagnostic tools like Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and chest CT scans.
• Importance of barrier techniques, managing co-morbidities, and understanding disease spread patterns.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of COVID-19 requires a multi-faceted approach including diagnostics, barrier techniques, and patient management.
• Continued research and understanding of COVID-19 are essential while awaiting vaccine development.
• Adherence to quarantine restrictions is vital for controlling the pandemic's spread.