SARS-CoV-2, the viral inciting agent of one of the deadliest pulmonary
infections known as novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) has resulted in millions of
deaths. With the first incidence being reported in the city of Wuhan, China, in
December 2019 and dealing with a pathogen capable of quick as well as easy
transmissibility, undefined symptoms, non-availability of therapeutics and
acclimatization/adaptation to COVID-19 scenario can be acknowledged as the phase I
challenges faced by the world. The novel and enduring COVID-19 pandemic that the
world has been witnessing for the past few years has advanced to the huge and
exhaustive phase II challenges that encompass the implementation of one of the longest
complete global shutdowns, unusual practice of work-from-home practices, immense
pressure on the healthcare sector, suspension of daily activities, majorly closing of
schools and colleges, no social gatherings, the urgency to develop anti-COVID
therapeutic/vaccine, lack of awareness/negligence, antimicrobial resistance and
emergence of variants that fuelled the spread of the infection. Despite the combined
efforts that might have flattened the curve of the infection, it remains a major trigger
for rolling out post-COVID challenges, being a serious concern for every facet of the
society that includes continuous deterioration of mental health, financial instability, and
fear of death. This chapter focuses on addressing the challenges and threats that
prevailed during and post-COVID period. Additionally, it also summarizes strategies to
combat the setbacks posed by SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Keywords: COVID-19, Infection, Pathogen, Therapeutic, SARS-CoV-2, Vaccine, Variants.
