It turned out to be a false scare ultimately, but the fear that gripped me last week very much lingers. Down with a slight fever and a sore throat, the first thought that crossed my mind was the possibility of the COVID-19 virus breaching our defences at home. Precautionary tests followed and all three in my immediate family tested negative, fortunately. For once, failing a test brought temporary relief. But I continue to be strung out by the little but lethal adversary rampaging through the world, holding us hostage from leading our normal lives.
Like everyone else, disoriented in varying degrees by the disruptions that the new coronavirus has brought upon us, I am also betting on the discovery of a vaccine(s), the soonest the better. After months of despondency, our hopes are soaring with our sights firmly on around 45-odd potential vaccines that are currently in different stages of trial worldwide. Another 156 probable vaccines are undergoing pre-clinical evaluations and those in the know are telling us that an antidote to rid us of the raging pandemic is certainly...

THIS ARTICLE IS PRICELESS...
To read this piece, and more such stories in India's most exciting and exacting magazine, plus get access to our 25-year archives goldmine, please subscribe.