Volunteers needed for mpox vaccine study
14 March 2024
Volunteers across London are being asked to join a study looking at the effectiveness of an investigational vaccine for mpox.
Volunteers across London are being invited to join a study investigating the effectiveness of an investigational vaccine for mpox..
This important study, conducted at multiple sites across the UK, including the Clinical Research Facility at St Stephen’s Centre at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, is supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and sponsored by Moderna.
The study is taking place at the following locations in London:
- St Stephen’s Centre, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH)
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust
- Mile End Hospital, part of Barts Health NHS Trust
Since 2022, there has been an increase in mpox transmission identified in the UK. Common symptoms of the mpox virus include a rash, fever, chills, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and sore throat. Currently, there is only one vaccine licensed in the UK and Europe for immunisation against mpox.
Dr Margherita Bracchi, principal investigator of the study at the Trust, said: “We're very pleased to be able to offer the opportunity to take part in this study to our patients and local community. Mpox is still a global health risk, so we need more vaccines to ensure we are prepared for any potential spikes in infection rates. Volunteers are playing a vital role, and we are very grateful to all who are coming forward.”