47 COVID-19 vaccine candidates in clinical trial phases around the world. There are also as many as 155 in preclinical testing.Given the sheer number of vaccine candidates that researchers have developed within months of the start of the pandemic, it is only natural that questions and doubts have arisen about this process.Traditionally, it can take years for a vaccine candidate to undergo testing for safety and efficacy and to gain official approval for distribution to the public.Stay informed with live updates on the current COVID-19 outbreak and visit our coronavirus hub for more advice on prevention and treatment.However, scientists have been ramping up their efforts with the aim of bringing a COVID-19 vaccine to the public in record.