The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) - A global health emergency

The 2019 novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is a new strain of virus emerged in Wuhan Hubei, China in December 2019. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by the virus spread worldwide and results in hundreds of thousands of deaths and was declared a global pandemic on 11 March 2020 by WHO. Here we review the current literature on COVID-19 to understand its epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, radiological characteristics and management. We will also look at infection control and surveillance measures applied on a global level. Studies have shown a wide spectrum of severity and symptoms ranging from mild to severe respiratory symptoms. Human to human transmission and via droplets was reported and wearing masks, avoidance of public contact, hygiene practices and quarantines have been implemented in many countries to contain the disease. Quick laboratory tests COVID-19 have been developed and many supportive treatments were reported but to date, no proven effective treatment or vaccine is available.