COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease that is caused by a coronavirus. Its impact can vary between people, from mild symptoms to serious life-threatening illness.
How The Florey is making a difference
Since the early descriptions of COVID-19 in late 2019, many researchers at The Florey have turned their attention to this global public health crisis. The Florey’s research into COVID-19 includes building scientific knowledge of the disease and biological mechanisms involved, and translational research including discovery of new therapeutics or treatments.
In May 2020, Professor Kevin Barnham and Dr Leah Beauchamp were among the first in the world to warn of possible neurological impacts of COVID-19 by drawing on the evidence base and their combined expertise in Parkinson’s disease and the olfactory system. In December 2020, Professor Clive May and Dr Yugeesh Lankadeva published their results of a specially formulated mega-dose of Vitamin C which showed efficacy in treating a critically-ill COVID-19 patient with sepsis-induced multi-organ failure.
Florey researchers continue to use their expertise to build the scientific understanding and develop new measures in the fight against COVID-19.
More information
Information and guidance around COVID-19 continues to evolve. We recommend consulting the guidance from the health department of your state or national government. In Victoria, information can be accessed through the Department of Health and Human Services and in Australia information is available through the Department of Health and Aged Care.
Latest news
Latest Florey news on COVID-19
