Rashida Malik pops into the pharmacy to pick up a prescription for her father.

“How’s your dad doing?” asks pharmacy technician Vicky.

“He’s doing so well, I’m so proud of him,” replies Rashida. “He hasn’t really been out of the house at all since last March because he has been shielding.”

“Does he take any supplements at all?” probes Vicky.

“No, nothing,” says Rashida. “He’s shielding due to his anti-rejection medication because of his transplant, but you know what he’s like, he is really very fit and well in himself, so hasn’t ever really felt the need to take any vitamins at all. Why do you ask?”

“I think it would be a good idea for him to take vitamin D,” states Vicky.

“Oh, really?” questions Rashida. “I read it reduces the risk of contracting Covid – is that what you are thinking?”