COVID-19 pandemic: A literature review

Abstract

The coronavirus pandemic which has originated in Wuhan province of China has brought the whole world on its knees. Despite many scientific advancements since 1900s in the field of medicine the world still remains clueless of controlling this pandemic. U.S.A remains on top with the highest number of cases and counting while the rest of the world is also not far behind. To understand about corona virus disease we did an extensive research of literature and have summed up our findings in our article. SARS-COV2 also known as COVID-19 gains entry via nasopharyngeal route where it attaches itself with the help of ACE 2 receptor thus causing infection. It most commonly affects lungs followed by heart, kidney and liver. Most of the cases present with fever, dry cough, shortness of breath and loss of taste and smell among other manifestations. RT-PCR remains the investigation of choice. Social distancing, practising hand hygiene and use of face mask have been advocated. Many of the drug trials are under way with recent FDA approval of remdesivir. Use of hydroxychloroquine has been debated however trials are underway for a more definite conclusion. The world is fast tracking the approval of vaccine with many of the vaccines in various stages of trials.