RE: HCS?18 Jan 2022 20:28
Longer term, challenge studies can be instrumental for accelerating development of current vaccine candidates. With the availability of effective vaccines, placebo groups in phase 3 studies will soon no longer be an ethically viable option. Head-to-head human challenge vaccine studies can rapidly provide data on the efficacy of new vaccines, new formulations of existing vaccines, or efficacy against viral variants. To mitigate the inherent risks involved, the UK COVID Challenge Study is being conducted in a low-risk population, namely those 18–30 years of age, in whom severe outcomes are rare and symptoms typically resolve within months. Chiu also stressed the importance of extensive public and participant involvement and engagement. Recent surveys and focus groups in the UK show strong support for a human challenge study.