SARS-CoV-2, a highly transmissible and pathogenic coronavirus, emerged in late 2019 in Wuhan, China, causing a global pandemic known as COVID-19. This review summarizes the virology, clinical features, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2, as well as recent advances in animal models and antiviral treatments. SARS-CoV-2 is a betacoronavirus closely related to SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, but with distinct genetic and receptor-binding characteristics. It uses the ACE2 receptor for entry into human cells and has a unique polybasic cleavage site in its spike protein, which may enhance transmissibility. The virus originated from bats and possibly pangolins, with evidence suggesting a zoonotic origin. However, the exact source and timeline of human infection remain unclear. The virus spread rapidly, leading to a global pandemic declared by the WHO in March 2020. SARS-CoV-2 has a broad host range, infecting various animals, including cats, ferrets, and minks. The clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 vary, with mild symptoms in younger individuals and severe disease in older adults and those with pre-existing conditions. The virus can cause severe respiratory failure and cytokine storms, leading to high mortality rates. Diagnosis involves molecular testing of respiratory samples and chest CT scans, with serological tests also being used for retrospective studies. Several antiviral drugs, including remdesivir, favilavir, lopinavir, and ritonavir, have shown some efficacy in treating SARS-CoV-2, though their effectiveness varies. Immunomodulatory therapies, such as dexamethasone and IL-6 inhibitors, have been used to manage severe cases. The review highlights the need for further research to understand the virus's origin, transmission dynamics, and to develop effective treatments and vaccines. Public health measures, including isolation and travel restrictions, have been crucial in controlling the spread of the virus. The ongoing research and clinical trials aim to improve diagnostic methods, therapeutic options, and public health strategies to combat the pandemic.SARS-CoV-2, a highly transmissible and pathogenic coronavirus, emerged in late 2019 in Wuhan, China, causing a global pandemic known as COVID-19. This review summarizes the virology, clinical features, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2, as well as recent advances in animal models and antiviral treatments. SARS-CoV-2 is a betacoronavirus closely related to SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, but with distinct genetic and receptor-binding characteristics. It uses the ACE2 receptor for entry into human cells and has a unique polybasic cleavage site in its spike protein, which may enhance transmissibility. The virus originated from bats and possibly pangolins, with evidence suggesting a zoonotic origin. However, the exact source and timeline of human infection remain unclear. The virus spread rapidly, leading to a global pandemic declared by the WHO in March 2020. SARS-CoV-2 has a broad host range, infecting various animals, including cats, ferrets, and minks. The clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 vary, with mild symptoms in younger individuals and severe disease in older adults and those with pre-existing conditions. The virus can cause severe respiratory failure and cytokine storms, leading to high mortality rates. Diagnosis involves molecular testing of respiratory samples and chest CT scans, with serological tests also being used for retrospective studies. Several antiviral drugs, including remdesivir, favilavir, lopinavir, and ritonavir, have shown some efficacy in treating SARS-CoV-2, though their effectiveness varies. Immunomodulatory therapies, such as dexamethasone and IL-6 inhibitors, have been used to manage severe cases. The review highlights the need for further research to understand the virus's origin, transmission dynamics, and to develop effective treatments and vaccines. Public health measures, including isolation and travel restrictions, have been crucial in controlling the spread of the virus. The ongoing research and clinical trials aim to improve diagnostic methods, therapeutic options, and public health strategies to combat the pandemic.