An Insight into the Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment of SARS-Cov-2 with a Synopsis of Situation in Malaysia during the 2020 Outbreak

Abstract

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the novel coronavirus (CoV) that emerged from China causing diseases known as COVID-19, mainly involves the respiratory system. It has ravaged through most of the world causing death in huge numbers. CoVs are zoonotic as they are transferred from animals to humans. Several animals have been suggested to be the host for SARS-CoV-2 ranging from bats, camels and pigs. The presence of a type 1 transmembrane glycoprotein called spike protein is responsible for CoVs’ ability to penetrate the host’s tissues. The immune response elicited during the proliferation of SARS-CoV-2 is most largely dependent on the macrophages, dendritic cells, T-cells and the human epithelial cells which determine the aftermath and lodging of chemokines and cytokines. The RT-qPCR is the preferred test for the confirmation of the disease although several Rapid Diagnostic Tests are also in use. Remdesivir, favilavir, niclosamide and ciclesonide are promising drugs under clinical trial or research to manage COVID-19. Several vaccines are also under clinical trial phase to mitigate the effect of COVID-19. Malaysia had its index case on the January 24th, 2020 and since then, Malaysia handling of the pandemic have been superb, well planned out and worthy of emulation from other countries. They have carried out an unprecedented number of tests surpassing any other country in the region. Keywords: diagnosis, Malaysia, pathogenesis, Sars-CoV-2, COVID-19, treatment.