Vaccine isn’t the only possibility.
UCSF is working on a combination therapy, an antiviral and an anti-inflammatory, that is showing promise. Previous combination therapies used for HIV are now not only being used as treatments, but also as pre-exposure prophylaxis - preventative. We might never have a cure or vaccine for HIV, but at this point, we don’t really need one given how good the treatments are. Maybe something similar can happen with COVID. We treat those who contract it, we work to prevent it for those high risk.
UCSF is also working on a self-administered nasal spray or inhaler that could be an effective molecular form of PPE. They’re called “Aero-Nabs” and they could be a daily-use, over-the-counter stopgap until vaccines or other options become available. Furthermore, Aero-Nabs could be a long-term tool for those without access to or don’t respond to vaccines.
https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2020/08/418241/aeronabs-promise-powerful-inhalable-protection-against-covid-19
