COVID-19 Variants, Available Treatments, and Vaccinations: An Overview Study

• Published in: Al-Rafidain Journal of Medical Sciences
• Main Author: Mohammed A.H.; Suhaimi A.M.; Hassan B.A.R.
• Format: Review
• Language: English
• Published: Al-Rafidain University College 2021
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85163767814&doi=10.54133%2fajms.v1i.42&partnerID=40&md5=28fd5156d4f718f134e78461fd7f0659

SARS-CoV-2 is the recent variation of the corona virus which is infecting people around the world and has affected more than 258 million people worldwide. Upon observation, the virus is similar to the coronavirus which spread from the horseshoe bat or wild animals to human beings. Up to date, there have been three major variants of the coronavirus which have been identified in UK, South Africa, and India which are spreading to other countries. Based on the current data, it is suggested that the incidents of repeated infection with SARS-CoV-2 is related to the level of neutralizing antibodies and the retained memory response which follows infection. Moreover, recently, a critical issue arises in relation to the association of black fungus and COVID-19, and urgent investigation is required. As a treatment method of COVID-19, FDA has recently approved the feasibility of Remdesivir to treat COVID-19 as emergency use authorization (EUA). There are also various possible antivirals which are still undergoing clinical trial. After widespread of the vaccine, the results showed that EUA vaccines have been effective in controlling COVID-19 in patients. However, these licensed vaccines ought to be reviewed to ensure they are also effective in combating the rising variants of SARS-CoV-2. © 2021 The Author(s). Published by Al-Rafidain University College.