The United Kingdom is poised to initiate the world’s first COVID-19 human challenge study next month, marking a significant step in understanding the virus and accelerating the development of effective treatments and vaccines.
In this groundbreaking research, up to 90 healthy volunteers aged between 18 and 30 will be deliberately exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus in a controlled environment. The participants will be closely monitored by medical professionals to observe how the virus affects the human body from the moment of infection.
The study aims to identify the smallest amount of virus needed to cause infection, providing crucial data on how COVID-19 progresses and spreads. This information could be instrumental in the development of new vaccines and therapeutics, ultimately contributing to global efforts to combat the pandemic.
“By establishing an exact timeline of how the virus affects the body, we can enhance our understanding and response to COVID-19,” said a spokesperson involved in the study.
All volunteers will undergo thorough screening to ensure they are at minimal risk of severe illness. They will receive financial compensation for their participation and will be provided with comprehensive medical care throughout the study duration.
The UK’s initiative underscores its commitment to pioneering research in the fight against COVID-19. As countries worldwide strive to manage and overcome the pandemic, this human challenge study could offer invaluable insights benefiting global public health.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
