Plymouth is top global recruiter for Covid-19 vaccine trial
University Hospitals Plymouth is currently the top recruiting site across the world for the international Covid-19 vaccine trial which launched on Monday this week.
The research team at the Trust have so far seen record numbers of volunteers register their interest to participate in the trial, and have been taken aback by the willingness of over 1500 residents of Plymouth and the surrounding area, to help in their investigations.
“Finding a successful vaccine is our only exit strategy out of this global pandemic, and so it is fantastic that the people of Plymouth have come to our aid, and so quickly,” explains Dr Gary Minto, Director of Research, Development and Innovation at UHP. “We are really pleased with how well recruitment to the study is going so far and want to thank everyone who has come forward.”
As it stands, the research team at University Hospitals Plymouth have consented, screened and randomised more participants than any other site across the world. The study, co-funded by the UK government’s Vaccine Taskforce, will test the safety and effectiveness of a new two-dose regimen for a vaccine candidate, developed by The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson.
Ann James, Chief Executive, said: “I’d really like to congratulate the Research, Development and Innovation team on this achievement, and to thank those who have signed up to take part in the trial. It’s fantastic news that brings us that bit closer to finding a vaccine, and I’m proud that our Trust is helping to play an important part in the global response to covid-19.”
If you would like more information about the study, or are interested in signing up, please send an email to plh-tr.uhpvaccinestudy@nhs.net
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust (UHP) is an acute specialist hospital with a large and active Research and Development team, recognising that patients who take part in research have better outcomes. It recruits thousands of patients to participate in research each year, with approximately 600 trials running at any one time.
