Covid-19, Influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus vaccine to be trialled by the University of the Sunshine Coast
A leading Queensland university has begun trialling a three-in-one mega vaccine that would protect against Covid-19, Influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Here’s what it means for you.
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A Queensland university has become one of the first in Australia to begin trialling a three-in-one mega vaccine that would protect against Covid-19, Influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
Clinical trials for the Moderna respiratory virus combination vaccine are now underway in Brisbane and will be led by the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC).
While it could be several years before the mega vaccine hits the market, principal investigator Dr Nischal Sahai said the three-in-one jab would significantly reduce pressure on the health care system during flu season and Covid case waves.
“It is hoped that by combining the vaccines for these three respiratory viruses there could be increased protection for older people due to the ease at which it could be accessed, much like paediatric vaccines,” Dr Sahai said.
“The benefit of that is it will encourage compliance for people to get the single annual booster and be covered against all three rather than attending several GP visits per year for booster doses.”
Phase one of the clinical trials will involve studying a group of volunteers aged between 50 and 75, who will receive a combination vaccine jab and attend seven follow up visits over 13 months at the UniSC Southbank clinic.
“That’s because people in those age group tend to suffer the most from viruses that affect the respiratory tract,” Dr Sahai said.
“We’re very excited because Moderna started this trial last year in December and we’re the only university clinical trial site in Brisbane that are running it.”
Those aged between 50 and 75 wanting to participate in the trials are encouraged to apply via the UniSC website.
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