SARS-CoV-2 Genetic Variations, Immunity, and Efficacy of Vaccines: The Current Perspectives and Future Implications

Abstract

From the time since its discovery, the novel SARS-CoV-2 had spread throughout the world and has been a challenge for the healthcare system to control its spread and manage the infected patients. Although the mortality rates varied around the globe, what was common was the impact of COVID-19 on the societal, cultural, political, and economic aspects. With no specific anti-viral drug available, the initial days of the pandemic were even more stressful and resulted in increased morbidity and mortality. Gradually, by the observations, and studies of clinicians and scientists, we could improve our knowledge regarding the nature of the virus, its potential origins, pathogenic mechanisms, methods of diagnosis, treatment, and effective strategies for the management of COVID-19 patients. Interestingly, the virus had been found mutating, and therefore, even after more than a year into the pandemic, we still are putting up a fight against the novel virus. Availability of the vaccine, despite hesitancy, has been the high point in the current pandemic. Molecular studies have revealed thousands of SARS-CoV-2 variants spread throughout the world. Several countries have been experiencing waves of infection forcing restricted people movements and lockdowns. The variability in the infection rates and intensities influenced by age, gender, and other factors remain to be completely understood. Efficacy of the vaccines, their safety, immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 infections has been at the forefront of the research studies. In this review, we discuss the molecular and immunological aspects of SARS-CoV-2 infection with a note on the current perspectives and future implications of the virus and vaccine research.