[throwaway201103]

> > The researchers will administer nicotine patches to some of the participants for a period of 4 to 5 months, and then carry out a follow-up for 6 to 7 months.

By that time, I'd expect widespread vaccinations particularly among older and at-risk people. Is this going to be anything more than a curiosity at that time? Maybe something to keep on the shelf for the next pandemic? Or a hedge in case the vaccine immunity is short-lived?