General aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Objectives: to review the available literature on the general aspects of SARS-CoV-2 infec-tion.

Methods: this is a narrative literature review carried out from March to September 2020.

Results: COVID-19 caused by the new coronavirus or SARS-CoV-2, grows with devas-tating effects worldwide. The literature describes epidemiological data and mortality risk groups of the disease, which presents a high rate of transmission. Prevention is the most effective way to fight the disease, persisting the absence of strong evidence on the treatment. Vaccines are not yet available. Dexamethasone is effective in reducing mortality in severe forms.

Conclusions: despite great efforts, as the number of confirmed cases increases, evidence on transmission, incidence, disease progression, lethality, effects and outcomes remain limited and without any high levels of evidence. Studies are still necessary for all aspects of the disease.