Introduction

Abstract

This Monograph is a reflection of the immense work the respiratory and wider medical community has achieved in this ever-evolving area. It aims to give the reader a comprehensive understanding of the virus itself, its pathological consequences, current best clinical practice, and the potential long-term consequences not only for the patient but for society as a whole, concluding with strategies to combat the virus.The first section of the Monograph explores the history of coronavirus [1], the virus itself [2], its effects upon the immune system [3] and the pathological consequences of infection [4]. Coronaviruses are a common cause of upper respiratory tract infections, particularly in children. Historically though, it was not until 2002 (with SARS-CoV-1) and again in 2012 (with MERS) that the virus developed severe and potentially lethal capabilities. The COVID-19 virus is a positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus. Both the innate and adaptive immune system are affected by the virus, but it is an impaired host immune response that is