York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals (YSTH) NHS FT are taking part in a study, trailing a new Covid-19 vaccine with the University of York and Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS FT.
Researchers will compare a placebo vaccine with the study vaccine, with participants crossing over during the trial and receiving both. Participants will not know when they are receiving the placebo or the investigational vaccine.
The study will involve a total of 30,000 adult subjects globally, and locally about 150 people, aged between 18 and 40 who have not already had a vaccine for Covid-19.
York is one of nine locations across the UK taking part in the global trial and is a first for the city. The study will also involve Regional Clinical Research Network partners, and is supported by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR). The trial, based at the University of York, will involve up to ten planned visits to the clinic over a two-year period, but this may be shorter depending upon the on-going results.
Lydia Harris, Head of Research and Development at York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS FT, said: “York is rapidly expanding its research capabilities. The quality of our researchers, facilities and patient groups are allowing us to engage effectively in cutting edge research at an international level. We have come a long way in a very short period of time.
“Our staff are doing incredible work to support Covid-19 research studies and we are very proud to have made significant contributions to this global effort.”
Professor Charles Lacey from Hull York Medical School who is the Principal Investigator, leading the local team, said: “Clinical studies are important for medical advances. Current available vaccines are only available because of research study volunteers.
“Although there are several approved Covid-19 vaccines available, research is ongoing to provide more options, since all vaccines may work differently in providing protection against Covid-19. The vaccine we are trialling showed very exciting results in phase 1/2 studies.”
