ABSTRACT

Dear Reader,

The continuing threat of Corona virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) to global health has posed critical challenges to public health, research, medical fraternity, and governments worldwide. Following the emergence of COVID-19 in the city of Wuhan in the Hubei province of China in December 2019, the number of infected individuals has been on a constant rise outside China with more than a million positive cases. With the centre of global outbreak now shifting to Europe with Italy currently having reported the second highest number of cases (>41,000) and highest mortality (3,405) followed by Spain, Iran (>19,000), Germany (>17,000) and USA (>14,000), the WHO has announced it as a global pandemic. According to the official sources, more than 300 cases have been reported in India with 7 deaths so far. Citing these statistics, several countries have halted flights from COVID-19 hit regions, imposed lockdowns in several cities, suspended major public events, shutdown public places including schools, gyms, museums, clubs, etc. and are urging their citizens to self-quarantine.