While that may be a scary thought for some, 30,000 people have already signed on to the idea of a “Covid-19 Human Challenge trial.” This means that willing participants infect themselves, under the supervision of scientists, in order to gain research on Covid. With enough human trials, researchers could hopefully develop a vaccine sooner. This can be done because in most cases the 30-18 year old demographic does not experience extreme symptoms. 

So the question posed today to WY students is “Would you willingly get coronavirus?” Edward Zhang ‘22 said “ I vote no. While I hope the challenge goes well, I don’t want to risk giving my family coronavirus or my sickness being for nothing if they don’t get any research from me.” Nate Affolter ‘23 added on by saying “I wouldn’t volunteer either, there are so many unknowns about the virus and some athletes can develop lung problems after getting the virus.” A different perspective, Morgan Michicich ‘21 said “I wouldn’t want to do it now because I live with immunocompromised people, but if in the future circumstances change I would potentially.”

While there are definitely risks involved with getting the virus, the information provided could help to change the world. If you are 18 years or older and want to volunteer you can go to 1daysooner.org and if you have any other thoughts, comment down below.