An updated review on pathogenic coronaviruses (CoVs) amid the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants: A look into the repercussions and possible solutions.

SARS-CoV-2, responsible for COVID-19, shares 79% and 50% of its identity with SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV, respectively. It uses the same main cell attachment and entry receptor as SARS-CoV-1, which is the ACE-2 receptor. However, key residues in the receptor-binding domain of its S-protein seem to give it a stronger affinity for the receptor and a better ability to hide from the host immune system.

Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 mortality in Saudi Arabia.

Objectives: To analyze the clinical and epidemiological characteristics for 224 of in-hospital coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mortality cases. This study's clinical implications provide insight into the significant death indicators among COVID-19 patients and the outbreak burden on the healthcare system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

Methods: A multi-center retrospective cross-sectional study conducted among all COVID-19 mortality cases admitted to 15 Armed Forces hospitals across KSA, from March to July 2020.

Characteristics and outcome of viral pneumonia caused by influenza and Middle East respiratory syndrome-coronavirus infections: A 4-year experience from a tertiary care center.

Background: After the emergence of new influenza viruses, the morbidity and mortality of viral pneumonia have received a great attention.

Objectives: The objective of this study is to describe the epidemiologic, clinical and laboratory changes, and outcomes of viral pneumonia caused by influenza and the Middle East respiratory syndrome-coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infections.

Methods: In a retrospective cohort study, the medical records of all patients diagnosed with viral pneumonia at Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, during the period from January 2012 to December 2015 were screened.