Effectiveness of COVID-19 Vaccines and Antiviral Therapies in The Era of SARS-CoV-2 Variants

Abstract

Since December 2019, the respiratory infection coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been responsible for a major pandemic. Several mutations and variants have emerged and been seen throughout the pandemic. They eventually spread to various continents and nations. The most effective method of preventing illnesses from the past till the present has been vaccination. As a result of the advancement of vaccinations, numerous nations have begun immunizing global target groups. From the start of COVID-19 to the present, there aren't many possibilities for therapy. Data indicate that the rapid evolution and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 variants poses a danger to the effectiveness of currently available medications. As a result, the COVID-19 pandemic brought to light a serious public health issue that had an impact on everyone in the world. Along with the pandemic's rapid speed, new targeted vaccinations and medical therapies have reduced fears to some extent. Clinical phase studies are still being conducted in various areas because it is evident that the initial antiviral medications approved for use in the treatment of COVID-19 are ineffective in severe cases. Anti-vaccination, however, is one of the most serious barriers to vaccination, which is thought to be vital in the prevention of illnesses. Lack of information, incorrect information, and misguided religious beliefs can all contribute to anti-vaccination. With the advent of SARS-CoV-2 variants, we review the literature to provide an up-to-date overview of the features and efficacy of antiviral therapy and vaccines. Copyright © 2023 by Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine.