The COVID-19 Pandemic

This book presents a comprehensive account of the COVID-19 pandemic also known as the novel coronavirus pandemic as it happened.This volume examines the first responses to the COVID-19 pandemic the contexts of earlier epidemics and the epidemiological basics of infectious diseases. Further it discusses patterns in the spread of the disease; the management and containment of infections at the personal national and global level; effects on trade and commerce; the social and psychological impact on people; the disruption and postponement of international events; the role of various international organizations like the WHO in the search for solutions; and the race for a vaccine or a cure.Based on new data and latest developments the second edition of this volume explores the global spread of COVID-19 since 2019 and examines the emergence of the evolving coronavirus variants (Alpha Beta Gamma Delta and Omicron). Further it extensively discusses what we have since discovered on the disease along with recent progress on treatments and vaccines.Authored by a medical professional and an economist working on the frontlines this book gives a nuanced verified and fact-checked analysis of the COVID-19 pandemic and its global response. A one-stop resource on the COVID-19 outbreak it is indispensable for every reader and a holistic work for scholars and researchers of medical sociology public health political economy public policy and governance sociology of health and medicine and paramedical and medical practitioners. It will also be a great resource for policymakers government departments and civil society organizations working in the area.