Coronavirus Pandemic has created havoc around the world, but there are still no drugs that can kill the virus or vaccines that can protect against it.

Since the last three months, China, Europe and the United States have all started work to produce a vaccine.  Coming up with a vaccine is not just a matter of pride for a country, but it’s all also about patents, distribution of the vaccine and big money. For this, there’s fierce competition but also cooperation between scientists at many levels.

The World Health Organization is working with scientists across the globe on at least 20 different coronavirus vaccines. There have been some clinical trials in record time — just 60 days after sequencing the gene. “The acceleration of this process is really truly dramatic in terms of what we’re able to do, building on work that started with SARS, that started with MERS and now is being used for COVID-19 ,” Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, the technical lead for WHO’s emergencies program, said at a press conference at the organization’s headquarters in Geneva on Friday

As per reports, leading pharmaceutical companies are also working together and with governments to assure that a vaccine is developed as quickly as possible.  The goal is to stamp out the pandemic and fast.

Research and Vaccine on COVID -19 in India

In India too, trails have begun. Adar Poonawalla, the chief executive officer of Serum Institute of India (SII), has gone on record saying that ` the vaccine for COVID 19  is expected within one year.’

SII is at the forefront of developing the vaccine where the animal trials are already underway. The SII, situated in Pune, Maharashtra is one of the largest vaccine manufacturer in the world by sheer volume. It is collaborating with many international biotechnology firms to work on the vaccine.

India’s top health research body The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has initiated a study that is expected to predict the rate of Covid-19 infections in the country in the coming months.
ICMR will use mathematical modeling to figure out how many cases India could be grappling with the disease. The study highlights the importance of testing and isolation as a defense against the spread of the virus. “At this point in time, lockdown is the most essential thing to break the chain of transmission,” said Balram Bhargava from ICMR.

As per the research 80 per cent of people infected by the virus are not impacted much, 20 per cent show flu-like symptoms like cough, cold and fever and of this, only 5 per cent would need hospitalization.

Difficult times ahead

Though, things are being done at a rapid speed, but research takes time. Realistically, a vaccine would take at least a year. New approaches to develop the vaccine are being used in China and America.  Medical experts point out, post developing a vaccine too, there are issues of mass production and distribution

Healthcare workers who come into contact with Covid-19 patients would be at the top of the list. The disease is most deadly in older people so they would be a priority if the vaccine was effective in this age group. However, it might be better to vaccinate those who live with or care for the elderly instead.

Until a vaccine or treatment is ready what can I do?

Various drugs are being used for patients with Coronavirus currently by doctors. Vaccines prevent infections and the best way of doing that at the moment is good hygiene.  Wash your hands with soap or sanitizer as often as possible. Practice Self isolation and if you venture out, wear a mask. Do not touch your eyes, nose or face too often.

If you are infected by coronavirus, then for most people it would be mild and can be treated at home with bed-rest, paracetamol and plenty of fluids. Of course, always consult your doctor before you consume any medicine. Some patients may develop more severe disease and need hospital treatment.