Application of Nanotechnology in Detection and Prevention of COVID-19

Over the years, due to climate change, developing cities, industrial transformation, excessive farming, food habits, and ease of traveling have increased the chances of spreading of a pathogen in case of any pandemic. Scientists are trying to devise strategies to stop or mitigate any potential outbreak of any unknown virus: SARS-CoV-2, an invisible virus, a profound way to distort human lifestyle globally, causing COVID-19. Herein, the chapter discusses the advancements in nanotechnological solutions for the detection and prevention of COVID-19. The structure, characteristics, detection methods, possible mechanisms, sensors, and portable test kits of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are reviewed. Various nanomaterials-based formulations and promising approaches for the detection and clinical diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infections are carefully summarized. It discusses how nanotechnology can be used as a tool to alleviate the SARS-CoV-2 virus and explore the applications of nanomaterials for antiviral, antifungal coatings on personal protective equipment for protection. Studies revealed that there is a broad scope to develop various nanotechnology-based solutions to combat the invisible enemy of humankind.