News of significant progress in trials of a new potential vaccine to protect against coronavirus has reignited a long-running debate over peoples’ perceptions of vaccination.

The vaccine was announced this week by German company Pfizer, who state it could offer 90 per-cent protection from the virus.

The vaccine has been tested on 43,500 people and no safety concerns have been raised.

Read more: First Covid vaccine offering 90% protection ordered to UK

On Thursday (November 12), we asked News Shopper readers on Facebook the following question:

“Will you get the coronavirus vaccine when it becomes available?"

As one reader put it, the question seemed to open a can of worms – with many strongly disagreeing over issues of safety and effectiveness.

Below are some of the responses we received:

Why would anyone not want it? It will be tested to the same level as every other new drug. It’s the only way we have a chance of protecting others, especially the venerable.

“Unfortunately there are the selfish few who will make fairly weak excuses to justify to themselves why they shouldn't get it and the even more selfish who will spread miss information to try and put off others from having it too.” - Chris Johnson

News Shopper:

“Not until they can prove it is 100% safe. In my opinion, rolling it out too soon does not give them the opportunity to know some vital things about it that could eventually prove to be fatal. Once it is safe, absolutely I will.” - Mimi Brooks

That's worrying how many people say yes thinking that everything will go back to normal afterwards on for a shock. I won't be in that queue” - Ian Saltmarsh

“If it means I can lay on a beach in Mexico, go visit my loved ones, go for a night out till 2am, my son can have a proper birthday party, my son can have his friends over, and I can return to life as normal as i am allowed then 100%” – Jodie Williams

News Shopper:

“I believe the scientists and not what people are saying on youtube and other social media platforms without any scientific qualifications” - Adrian Cooper

I would have it today if it were possible, I understand people's reservations but imagine if everyone said no to polio, diphtheria and all the other killer diseases that vaccinations keep our children safe.

"It may be worse for the elderly when they get it but people need to remember once the elderly are vaccinated and hopefully safe the virus still needs victims!” - Suzanne Dunworth

“Yes! If I could buy it, I would have it now!” - Davina O'Regan

News Shopper:

I’ll rely on my own immune system. The figures show me that’s the best option. As for mandatory Vs well... over my dead body!” – Sarah Kendall

“Question is News Shopper, will you?” - Craig Kendall

“Yes.” – Will Harrison