COVID19: A PANORAMIC VIEW (PART 2)

Dr. Sunanda Gaddalay, *Dr. Ruchi Rathi, Dr. Anita Kale, Dr. Revtee Birajdar, Dr. Ramchandra Kabir and Dr. Amol Badgire

ABSTRACT

COVID-19 has led to more than 3.39 million confirmed cases accross the country and is known to be caused by a highly pathogenic strain of human corona virus (HCoV) - SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2). The pandemic began in December 2019, when a cluster of 41 cases with severe pneumonia of unknown origin emerged from Wuhan, China. Extensive research and scientific response has helped to fight the pandemic by availing more information about the disease. The surface of the virus displays prominent club shaped projections, composed of its spike protein, under the electron microscope; which imparts the virus its pathogenicity. virus being a potent inducer of inflammatory cytokines; activates immune cells thereby resulting in profound cytokine storm and ARDS. Knowledge of incubation period, basic reproduction number, pathogenesis, viral structure and viral life cycle will help to provide better treatment to those infected.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, Incubation period, Basic reproduction number, Spike protein, Cytokine storm, ARDS, Pneumonitis.