Recommendations have also been set to prioritise research in COVID-19-related work with immediate and mid- to long-term priorities.3,4 The immediate aims focus on accelerating research that can contribute to containing the spread of this epidemic and helping those affected to receive optimal care. The mid- to long-term priorities stemming from experience of this pandemic are to develop global research platforms aiding preparedness for the next unforeseen epidemic and to encourage research, development and equitable access, based on public health needs, to diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines.4 The process of prioritisation to meet the above needs will result in reallocating staff and resources towards COVID-19-related activities, which will naturally have its pros and cons. The imperative for research must therefore be balanced by the need to avoid unduly diverting resources, including personnel, equipment and healthcare facilities, from other critical clinical and public health efforts.2 Emphasis must also be put on the need to coordinate research within and between research institutions as well as with government bodies to avoid overlapping protocols amidst changing standards of care, which is particularly pertinent in settings where resources are limited.