Novel Coronavirus Pandemic-Stark Realities & New Lessons For Science & Humanity

ABSTRACT

The article describes stark realities regarding origin and spread of novel Coronavirus SARS CoV-2 that has precipitated into global pandemic and most severe existential crisis since World War II. It touches upon scientific, sociological, international relations and philosophical aspects of the crisis. Due focus is laid on microbiology of virus, molecular basis of transmission and viral genome. The clinical presentation describes common symptoms, effects on lungs & cardiovascular outcomes. Importance of simple preventive measures is explained to ensure containment and prevention of mass communication. Diagnosis holds the key particularly in absence of any approved vaccine and drug therapy. ICMR has taken pragmatic stand on use of testing kits based on RT PCR for diagnosis and serological tests for surveillance. The article describes progress being made in development of vaccines, WHO global clinical trials and other evidence-based trials to find right therapeutic options. Last but not the least, authors delineate some ethical and innate lessons for science and humanity. © 2020, Indian Pharmaceutical Association. All rights reserved.