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Nine months since the disease now known as COVID-19 first crept into the headlines, standard advice for avoiding it—such as wearing a mask, avoiding crowds, and washing hands well and often—has become familiar. But as winter approaches in the northern hemisphere, and with it an anticipated surge in cases, we sought out additional science-backed tactics to lower the chances of becoming infected, or of developing severe disease. The Scientist spoke with experts in virology, immunology, and medicine about the measures they’re taking themselves and recommending to others that may boost defenses against the novel coronavirus and other pathogens. None yet meet the gold standard for clinical evidence—a randomized controlled trial showing they reduce COVID-19 transmission or severity—but for each, there’s a scientific rationale for thinking they may provide some protection.
As we anxiously await a proven vaccine for SARS-CoV-2, studies indicate that certain existing vaccines—namely, those ...
