Since early 2020, a deadly pandemic caused by a new Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has threatened public health, world economies, and quality of life on a global scale. As of March 2024, the COVID-19 outbreak has resulted in 775 million confirmed cases and >7 million deaths worldwide ().
Unlike the previous CoV outbreaks, which were successfully managed using public health measures, containment of SARS-CoV-2 will require a concerted effort involving vaccines and therapeutics, along with public health measures. While the successes with first generation of CoV vaccines have been remarkable, it is becoming clear that a better and long-term solution to end the current pandemic and prevent future outbreaks is desperately needed.