Covid-19 vaccine trial plea for young people

Young people from Renfrewshire people are being sought to take part in clinical trials for a new Covid-19 vaccine.

Developed by the speciality vaccine company Valneva, the jab is the only one in clinical development in Europe that contains an ingredient to create a stronger immune response to the virus.

The inactivated, adjuvanted vaccine is being manufactured at Valneva’s site in Livingston.

It uses the same wellestablished technology used to create the seasonal flu, hepatitis A, polio and rabies vaccines and has been found to have no safety concerns in two research stages already completed.

Now those who have not already received their Covid-19 vaccine are being urged to come forward as part of the latest study which seeks to secure 200 volunteers across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.

Everyone involved in this trial will receive two active vaccine doses, administered in a four week interval.

Those enrolled in the study over the age of 30 will be randomised to receive two doses of either the Valneva vaccine, or the approved Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine.

Participants aged 18 to 29 will only receive the Valneva vaccine.

Professor Julie Brittenden, director of research and innovation at NHSGGC, said: “The team based at our Glasgow clinical research have been at the forefront of covid research over the past year, and are pleased to have the opportunity to help test this new type of vaccine.

“Please help us by volunteering to take care part in this novel trial by registering at www.nhs.uk/ researchcontact.”

Subject to successful Phase 2/ 3 data, Valneva hopes the vaccine would be approved for us in the autumn.