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Starting from the end of 2019 the new SARs-CoV-2 virus, in the period of a few months, had spread to 210 countries and its territories. The Wuhan wild animal market, in Hubei province, China is considered the epicenter of this pandemic. WHO declared the name COVID-19 to designate the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It is the third coronavirus pandemic after SARS in 2002–2003 and MERS-CoV in 2012. Genome sequencing of this new COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 virus shows slight genetic diversity when compared to other coronaviruses. Owing to its pathogenesis, and less known replication cycle, no universal antiviral treatment can be applied and vaccine preparation is still a larger challenge. The present article will highlight transmission, pandemic status, genetic diversity current antiviral therapy, and vaccine trials for COVID-19.

Diarrhea is the second leading cause of death among children under five years of age and causes 53,000 child deaths in Pakistan annually. Lahore, being densely populated, is the most affected area compared to the other cities of Punjab. This cross-sectional survey was conducted in the urban areas of Lahore, in the surroundings of the Punjab University. A questionnaire was filled out by 100 participant mothers whose child was affected at least once. Several variables were evaluated, and significance was checked using Chi-square. Of the total of the participants, 85% of the mothers were aware and mainly educated. About two-thirds (63%) of children were vaccinated for Rotavirus. Hand washing habits and safe drinking were significantly reducing the incidence. Spreading more awareness through media, stopping the unnecessary use of medications, promoting hand washing practice and increasing awareness about the Rotavirus vaccine will help reduce the incidence and prevalence of diarrhea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starting from the end of 2019 the new SARs-CoV-2 virus, in the period of a few months, had spread to 210 countries and its territories. The Wuhan wild animal market, in Hubei province, China is considered the epicenter of this pandemic. WHO declared the name COVID-19 to designate the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It is the third coronavirus pandemic after SARS in 2002-2003 and MERS-CoV in 2012. Genome sequencing of this new COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 virus shows slight genetic diversity when compared to other coronaviruses. Owing to its pathogenesis, and less known replication cycle, no universal antiviral treatment can be applied and vaccine preparation is still a larger challenge. The present article will highlight transmission, pandemic status, genetic diversity current antiviral therapy, and vaccine trials for COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]