Hype and hope of emerging therapies to safeguard against COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease represented with multiple non specific symptoms and caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Despite its dissemination and worsening trends researchers are still searching for the best treatment option. Timely diagnosis is the key to get more appropriate treatment regimen. Several clinical trials are ongoing to determine the efficacy and safety of existing and new therapies against Coronavirus Disease -2019 (COVID-19). These include corticosteroids, antivirals, monoclonal antibodies, interferon Alpha 2b and other immune modulators. In addition to treatment, efficacious and safe vaccines are required to slow viral transmission and to prevent further morbidity and mortality. The vaccination is useful tool to get control over the virus. Although, mass immunisation campaigns are ongoing in many countries, global coverage is crucial for getting the pandemic under control. This descriptive review collated the information on current diagnostics tools for determination of COVID-19 infection and available preventive and therapeutic strategies based on the ongoing clinical trials data and published literature.