Abstract
Several strains of the novel Coronavirus have been identified and
countries around the world are conducting research to identify, map and
compare each type. Its infection can manifest with symptoms ranging from
uncomplicated non-specific illness to a more damaging syndrome that
include mild to moderate pneumonia (Co-vid 19 pneumonia broadly
categorised into the phenotypes: L-type and H-type); Acute Respiratory
Distress Syndrome; Sepsis and Septic shock. Although, this virus has a
low mortality rate, the danger lies in its virulence and transmission
dynamics. With more and more cases being reported, researchers and
clinicians are promptly identifying and triaging the cases for
treatment. Till date, there has been no drug identified to be
efficacious cure for this infection. Using the WHO guidelines as a base,
various medical institutions are continuously updating their guidelines
for the identification and therapeutic management of persons infected
with Co-vid 19, with a strong emphasis on IPC measures. The guidelines
also highlight detailed supportive treatment including supplemental
oxygen therapy, ventilation, intubation and management of specific
complications. The current treatment is tailored to patient centred
management for the existing co-morbidities and appreciate a progress in
the prognosis. What is needed at this hour however, is a definitive drug
therapy or vaccine. Different countries are rushing to find this and
various trials are already underway. The aim of this article is thus to
review salient features of specific therapies being used now and
summarise the different clinical trials being conducted so as to stay
abreast of the possible treatment modalities.