Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, which has caused
millions of confirmed infections and thousands of deaths, has been the
most devastating worldwide crises recently. The main clinical symptoms
of confirmed COVID-19 cases include fever, dry cough, general fatigue,
respiratory symptoms, diarrhoea and sore throat, similar to those of
acute respiratory distress syndrome. SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of
COVID-19, belongs to a novel coronavirus strain against which no drug or
vaccine currently exists. Therefore, research units around the world
have been actively developing efficient diagnostic tools and new drugs.
This review summarises the clinical manifestations of COVID-19, analyses
the viral genome sequence and life cycle, identifies methods for
preventing viral transmission, discusses possible molecular
pharmacologic mechanisms and approaches in the development of
anti-SARS-CoV-2 virus therapeutic agents and introduces management
measures against COVID-19 in Taiwan, especially policies for a
name-based mask distribution system. Finally, we summarise traditional
Chinese medicines (TCM) for COVID-19. Based on all the information
accumulated in this review, development of novel anti-viral agents,
vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 therapy or an effective combination therapy can
be expected. Finally, we would like to extend our best regards to the
frontline health workers in their global fight against COVID-19.