World-first coronavirus treatment trial starts

A HULL patient has become the first in the world to take part in a trial aiming to treat the most severe coronavirus cases.

Iuliana-alexandra Constantin, 34, took part in the phase three trial of Interferon Beta - an inhaled treatment that takes the form of a mist.

Ms Constantin was admitted to Hull Royal Infirmary earlier this week with Covid-19 where she agreed to take part in the next phase of the trial.

It is hoped the drug will help patients to recover faster from the affects of coronavirus, especially in the more severe cases.

It is designed to boost the lungs’ antiviral defences.

After treatment in hospital, Ms Constantin and other patients will be shown how to administer once-a-day treatment themselves.

Consultant respiratory physician Dr Michael Crooks is the principal investigator for the trial in Hull and explained that the city is now “at the forefront” of Covid treatment trials.

It comes after Hull took part in the Phase 2 trial, involving around 100 people, during the first wave of the pandemic

“Hull is at the forefront of studying new treatments for Covid-19 and we are currently taking part in a number of trials of potential new therapies,” he said.

“The dedication and commitment of our researcher teams mean we are able to offer patients access to potential new treatments against this terrible disease.

“We are hopeful this trial will confirm the effectiveness of inhaled Interferon Beta in helping people recover from the virus and preventing them developing severe disease.

“This trial will evaluate whether inhaled Interferon Beta helps patients with Covid-19 who need oxygen, recover faster and prevent development of more severe forms of the disease.

“Any treatment we can provide to help patients recover faster has massive benefits for them and our hospitals.”

Respiratory research nurse Suzanna Thackeray-nocera administered the treatment to Iuliana-alexandra.

Experts will continue to monitor the patient before she can return home, where she will be able to continue the trial alone.