Global overview of SARS-CoV-2 induced COVID-19 in 2020: biological characterization, epidemiology with social, economic and environmental implications

ABSTRACT

Background: COVID-19 is a global pandemic initiated in January 2020 that caused 79 million cases and more than 1.7 million deaths worldwide. The causative agent of COVID-19 is Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2, a member of Betacoronvirus. COVID-19 patients are classified into asymptomatic, mild symptomatic, and severe symptomatic cases. Objectives: To review the prevalence, therapeutic interventions for the treatment, vaccination, and containment of COVID-19 in four quarters of 2020, emphasizing the advancements in biological studies, and the social, economic, and environmental impact of the pandemic. Methodology: Data of COVID-19 spread, identification, prevention, and control measures was analyzed. The impacts of pandemic on society, economy, and the environment were assessed.