We are still in the midst of the pandemic, so things may look like they are progressing slowly, but in reality we have broken many expectations in a short timespan. 

The development of a vaccine typically takes 10-15 years, and that is if it even works in the first place. In under a year, we have already developed multiple Covid vaccines that have been shown to work very well. All four of the vaccine candidates in the U.S. (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson) seem to offer total or near-total protection from the virus or serious symptoms.

Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are mRNA vaccines, a new type of vaccine, and are the world’s first successful ones to be produced. This is a huge achievement for scientists because mRNA vaccines provide immunity without using weakened or inactivated versions of the virus.

Although, this does not guarantee the end of the pandemic soon since there are still many issues. The vaccines may not work in certain variants of the virus, as shown in South Africa. These variants may spread worldwide and we will have to continue researching and developing a vaccine against them. 

This is only a possibility, though, because there is a way to combat any mutations using the current vaccine. Mutations within a virus are often caused by worldwide spread, so if the vaccine is distributed to the population, this can lower the risk of mutation. 

Of course, this is easier said than done. The supply for vaccines will need to increase and there has to be a better way to distribute the vaccine. People must also be willing to get the vaccine, but many may be worried about the side effects or think they won’t need it.

Even if there may be a few obstacles in the way of getting through this pandemic, we have already made so much progress in a short amount of time. If things go smoothly, we will be able to end the pandemic and leave with new scientific discoveries. If things don’t go well, it may take time but we will find a new and effective solution.