SARS-CoV-2: lessons from both the history of medicine and from the biological behavior of other well-known viruses

SARS-CoV-2 is the etiological agent of the current pandemic worldwide and its associated disease COVID-19. In this review, we have analyzed SARS-CoV-2 characteristics and those ones of other well-known RNA viruses viz. HIV, HCV and Influenza viruses, collecting their historical data, clinical manifestations and pathogenetic mechanisms. The aim of the work is obtaining useful insights and lessons for a better understanding of SARS-CoV-2. These pathogens present a distinct mode of transmission, as SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza viruses are airborne, whereas HIV and HCV are bloodborne. However, these viruses exhibit some potential similar clinical manifestations and pathogenetic mechanisms and their understanding may contribute to establishing preventive measures and new therapies against SARS-CoV-2.

Automated summary

This review compares the characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 with other well-known RNA viruses such as HIV, HCV, and influenza viruses, aiming to provide insights and lessons for better understanding SARS-CoV-2. The distinct modes of transmission among these pathogens, along with potential similarities in clinical manifestations and pathogenetic mechanisms, could help in establishing preventive measures and new therapies against SARS-CoV-2.