Dr Anthony Fauci, America’s leading expert on infectious diseases, is widely respected for his ability to explain science without talking down to his audience — and lately, for managing to correct the President’s pronouncements without saying he is wrong.

President Donald Trump said that drug companies would make a coronavirus vaccine ready “soon”.

Fauci has repeatedly stepped up after the President to the lectern during televised briefings or at White House round tables to amend that timetable, giving a more accurate estimate of at least a year or 18 months.

Trump said a “cure” might be possible. Fauci explained that antiviral drugs were being studied to see if they might make the illness less severe.

The President also said the disease would go away in the spring. Fauci said maybe so, but because it was caused by a new virus, there was no way to tell.

Experts like Fauci should be the ones who speak to the public during epidemics, said Representative Donna E. Shalala of Florida, who was his boss during the Obama administration, when she led the Department of Health and Human Services.

“I think Tony is playing the same exact role that he has in the past — to make sure the science is accurate and clear,” Shalala said. “During a health emergency, it’s the scientists and physicians that are the credible people to the American public, not politicians.”

“I used to make him wear his white coat when talking to the public,” she added. “I used to make them all wear their white coats so people were reassured that they are real doctors.”

On Sunday, Fauci appeared on at least two television news shows, warning that as the virus spread — there were more than 450 cases in at least 33 states — some stricter measures to isolate the infected might be considered. He also offered advice for older adults and those with underlying health conditions who are most at risk, saying they should avoid cruises, flights and large gatherings of people.

At a recent congressional subcommittee hearing, one representative asked Fauci if he had a twin, because he seemed to be everywhere lately.

Another offered medical advice: lemon, honey and bourbon for his voice, which has been hoarse for weeks from endless rounds of talking to lawmakers, scientists, health officials and reporters.

If Fauci has become the explainer-in-chief of the coronavirus epidemic, it is in part because other government scientists have left a vacuum, avoiding the news media spotlight or being reined in by the Trump administration and accused of exaggerating the threat from the virus. When reporters call Fauci, he calls them back.