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Good morning. A UK-wide study, led by Edinburgh University, will sequence the genomes of 20,000 people who were severely ill with Covid-19 and compare them with 15,000 others who had milder symptoms. This will help to understand why some people are affected more than others and lead to better treatments. It comes as a new National Genomic Healthcare Strategy was announced over the weekend.

This use of science to understand and treat symptoms works in parallel with the search for a vaccine and has a long history. Just over 150 years ago, The Lancet began to publish a series of papers by the surgeon Joseph Lister on his discovery of antiseptic surgery. As with other surgeons, Lister had high mortality rates after operations. Then his attention was drawn to the work of Pasteur that suggested infection was due to living organisms. Lister was also struck with the effect of carbolic acid on the sewage of Carlisle, easing the stench and leaving fields that seemed to be safe for cattle to graze on. Putting these two things together, he used carbolic acid on instruments, surgical incisions, and dressings – leading to a significant reduction in gangrene in wounds.

His passion for his patients’ welfare was in part due to his Christian faith, which shaped his life and his sense of vocation. Raised as a Quaker, Lister became a Scottish Episcopalian when he married Agnes, who worked with him in his research. He was passionate for truth but remained gracious when some objected to his work. At a Graduation Address at Edinburgh University he told doctors, ‘If we had nothing but pecuniary rewards and worldly honours to look to, our profession would not be one to be desired. But….rightly followed, will be guided by unfettered truth and love unfeigned. In the pursuit of this noble and holy calling I wish you all God-speed.’

Unlike some medical pioneers, he faced few difficulties in life. Nevertheless his hands had cracked and roughened skin caused by the constant use of carbolic solutions, and his faith did not immunise him from the grief of the death of his wife. Yet this medical innovator dedicated his life and expertise for the good of others.

It is a long way from infected wounds to the virus of today. Scientists of many faiths and none are trialling vaccines, researching and devising new treatments, and teaching a new generation of students at school and university. In the midst of fear, uncertainty, and illness I am thankful to God for them in using their gifts and giving of themselves - and pray them all God-speed.

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