Coronavirus: how much protection can we expect from a future vaccine?

Oxford jab trials nearing completion - but experts dismiss hopes of ‘pandemic silver bullet’

A doctor gives a subject an injection during Covid-19 vaccine trials.
(Image credit: Getty Images)

With countries worldwide heading back into lockdown, speculation is growing about when a potential vaccine may become available to help alleviate the need for harsh Covid-19 restrictions.

UK Vaccine Taskforce chair Kate Bingham told MPs this week that while the Oxford University vaccine may be ready within weeks, production delays mean the first batch may total no more than four million doses. And concerns over how long coronavirus antibodies last have raised questions about whether multiple jabs may be needed to maintain immunity.

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