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This virus is highly transmissible between humans, leading to a significant global health crisis. SARS-CoV-2 belongs to the betacoronavirus genus, similar to the SARS and MERS viruses. The genome of SARS-CoV-2 shares 79. 6% similarity to SARS-CoV, the virus responsible for the 2002-2003 outbreak, but differs in several key genomic regions. The symptoms of COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection range from mild respiratory problems to severe pneumonia, leading to respiratory failure and even death, particularly in older adults or individuals with underlying health conditions. Transmission occurs mainly through droplets expelled from the respiratory system of infected individuals, though it can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces. Efforts to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2 include widespread testing, contact tracing, quarantine measures, and the development of vaccines and antiviral treatments. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic, and governments worldwide have implemented various measures to mitigate its impact, such as social distancing, travel restrictions, and mask mandates. The scientific community has actively researched SARS-CoV-2, studying its structure, transmission dynamics, and potential treatments. This knowledge has been crucial in developing diagnostic tests, therapeutic interventions, and vaccines. Vaccination campaigns have been rolled out globally, aiming to mitigate the impact of the virus and achieve herd immunity. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has had far-reaching social, economic, and political consequences, disrupting healthcare systems, causing job losses, and challenging governments worldwide. Ongoing research and surveillance continue to monitor the evolution and spread of SARS-CoV-2 variants, as well as the effectiveness of various interventions against the virus.