Confronting COVID-19

How has the virus that causes COVID-19 spread so rampantly? What are the most promising options for treating or protecting against the disease?

McGill researchers, in partnership with their colleagues in Canada and around the world, are at the forefront of efforts to answer these and other critical questions.

Here is a look at some of that work.

Tracking the virus

One of the first challenges is tracking the virus and better understanding how it spreads. McGill’s infectious-disease and public health experts are playing a big role in the search for solutions.

First genetic sequencing of COVID in Quebec shows roots of outbreak

Initial results show an estimated 250 independent events following spring break travel led to 60,000 people being infected

Making sense of Quebec’s COVID-19 data

McGill math modelers crunch government numbers to shine a light on real time transmission rates and provide short-term forecasts.

Québec COVID-19 Biobank supports search for answers

Sample tissues from patients at participating hospitals will help researchers understand the dynamics of the virus.

Canada launches serological testing initiative

McGill experts play key roles in pan-Canadian task force to gauge COVID-19 immunity.

Treating patients

What are the most promising treatment options? How quickly can a vaccine be developed?

New wave of research projects supported by MI4

Researchers supported by this initiative are pursuing projects that look at the pandemic and its ramifications in a wide variety of ways.

COVID-19 vaccines: McGill researchers track the global race

McGill-led vaccine tracker provides real-time updates on progress in developing a COVID-19 vaccine.

Looking to produce a COVID-19 vaccine in the greenhouse

Prof. Brian Ward is also Medical Officer at Medicago, a world leader in plant-based vaccine manufacturing.

Screen shot of mcgill.ca/covid19research/ website

COVID-19 experts and research projects

A directory of McGill experts and searchable listing of research projects related to the pandemic.

Assessing impacts

How will the crisis change the way we work? How are service cuts by public transportation agencies affecting lower-income groups? Why misinformation on social media may pose public-health risks.

Vulnerable groups affected by public transit cuts amid pandemic

Study of public transport agencies across North America shows service cuts disproportionately affect lower-income groups.

Social media users more likely to believe false information

Social media linked to behaviours that undermine efforts to curb the pandemic.

Social isolation causing psychological distress among university students

Students without mental health problems more severely affected by COVID-19 stressors than those with pre-existing mental health problems.

We may never work the same

Social distancing has accelerated the work-from-home movement. More than this, it has restructured the way we work, and the kind of work we do. The effects may persist.