Who would have thought that the mere 27 cases of pneumonia in Wuhan, China would end up throwing the world into turmoil? On March 11, 2020, COVID- 19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization, and since then, researchers worldwide have been trying to develop a vaccine. As of now, researchers have identified some parts of how the virus works, how it’s transmitted, and ways we can slow down its spread.
how did covid-19 arise?
COVID-19 is similar to most animal viruses in that it is an infectious genetic element packaged in a lipid membrane with associated membrane proteins. Upon sequencing of this element and comparisons to different coronavirus strains, researchers have determined the virus to originate from bats.
However, these comparisons also showed that humans did not contract the virus directly from bats. Instead, it is likely that the virus was transmitted through an intermediate host, pangolins.
What are pangolins? Credits: Shutterstock
waging war on the immune system
What makes COVID-19 so infectious is the Spike Glycoprotein (S), which is a protein attached to the surface of the lipid membrane. These Spike Glycoproteins target and bind specific receptors in lung cells, which facilitate the insertion of the genetic element into these cells!
The stress of this extra genetic element in the lung cells cause these cells to die. Additionally, the extra genetic element triggers the immune system leading to inflammation. As a result, the walls of the lungs deteriorate, allowing fluid to leak through and cause respiratory failure.
COVID-19 structure. Credits: Newscientist
stopping the spread
Researchers have found that COVID-19 is commonly spread through respiratory droplets and can last on surface for up to three days. Facial masks have been shown to impede transmission. Wash your hands frequently with soap or hand sanitizer (60% ethanol at least is recommended). Avoiding touching your face or anywhere the virus may gain entry. Happy social distancing!
References
Kakodkar, P., Kaka, N., & Baig, M. N. (2020). A comprehensive literature review on the clinical presentation, and management of the pandemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Cureus, 12(4), e7560. doi:10.7759/cureus.7560