SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2):
SARS-CoV-2 is a single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Coronaviridae family. It is an enveloped virus and is the causative agent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets and can cause a range of respiratory and systemic symptoms. SARS-CoV-2 has led to a global pandemic, with widespread impact on public health and daily life.

Diseases caused by SARS-CoV-2:
SARS-CoV-2 infections can manifest with a wide spectrum of symptoms, ranging from mild respiratory illness to severe pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). COVID-19 can also lead to complications affecting multiple organs, including the heart, kidneys, and nervous system. Severe cases are more common in older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions. The virus has caused a significant number of fatalities worldwide.

Detection and Diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2:
Diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 infections involves clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Common symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Laboratory confirmation is typically achieved through molecular methods like reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), which detects viral RNA in respiratory specimens such as nasopharyngeal swabs. Rapid antigen tests and serological assays, such as the ELISA tests available here, are used for detecting antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 are also utilized. Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial for implementing public health measures, including isolation and contact tracing, to control the spread of the virus.