Infections with COVID-19 are now global, reaching 213 countries, and as of May 29, 2020, more than 5M+ confirmed cases, with over 355.000+ deaths, although the number is still rising by the day. This short review aims to briefly highlight what is known about the epidemiology, aetiology, testing techniques and clinical features of COVID-19. The inter-human transmission of coronaviruses mainly occurs through saliva droplets, aerosols and direct/indirect contact through surfaces. Successful containment preceding any future effective vaccine includes social distancing, contact tracing, tracking of infected people, mass screening and providing healthcare professionals and social care workers with adequate personal protective equipment.
Keywords: COVID-19 pandemic, clinical pathology, coronavirus, pathogen transmission, microbiology