With vaccines becoming available, there is hope that our lives can return to a semblance of normalcy in 2021. The mRNA platform has shrunk vaccine development timelines from the usual 10 years to a mere 10 months. Rapid covid-19 tests will allow corporates, academic institutions and entertainment venues to routinely and rapidly screen for infections. Scientists have fostered cross-border collaborations and pooled complementary skill-sets to hunt promising leads for covid-19 vaccines and drugs. In 2021, collaboration could well become the ‘new normal’ as diverse players join hands to enable effective, concerted action through meaningful partnerships.

Source: Mint December 31, 2020 06:00 UTC