What is up! I’m back quicker than you thought, that is because I am here to talk about the coronavirus ~said in Cardi B’s voice~ I know I said I wouldn’t talk about it for a minute because it is a depressing topic right now living in a pandemic, but I want to discuss a little about what researchers and health care professionals are looking at when it comes to a vaccine or antiviral to treat the coronavirus. This is a completely new virus so we are starting from square one when it comes to developing a treatment option, which is very scary when that is the number one thing that people need right now.
Healthline says that in cases like this when they do not have any vaccine or antiviral for a virus that they try to see if any other antiviral medication can be at least somewhat effective. Originally, the FDA declared emergency use of two malaria anti-viral drugs, but since then many credible organizations and sources have said it is not effective against Covid-19. Many companies are already starting to develop and test antivirals for Covid-19. Vaccines are also being researched and usually vaccines take around a year to be developed. Some of the antivirals that are already available for other viruses that have a potential for being used for Covid-19 are Remdesivir (proved successful with MERS), Kaletra (that treat HIV), and a few more. Right now, everything is in the beginning stages so we will have to wait for the results of the different trials!
According to clinicaltrialarena.com in China they have already approved the use of the antiviral Favilavir after putting it through a trial and having it be mostly effective. Many other companies like Roivant Sciences are producing antivirals right now that they hope will be effective in decreasing the mortality rate of already infected patients. There is a whole list of drugs and vaccines given on this website that are being produced and tested to treat Covid-19. Right now, there isn’t any definite answer to what the most effective antiviral drug will be and how fast they will find and make it, but they have to go through the proper route so that it is the safest option possible. I admire all the healthcare workers for being amazing and taking care of everyone through this difficult time. I also am thankful for the amazing work researchers are doing to help develop a vaccine and antiviral drugs so that we will be safe.
That is it for this week’s (extra credit) blog post! Thank you for reading and please stay safe and social distance!!!!!!!
Microbiology 