Oxford University Expands COVID-19 Vaccine Trial with Mixed-Schedule Approach

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at the University of Oxford have introduced a new phase in their coronavirus vaccine trial, where participants receive two different vaccines in the first and second doses. This study aims to explore the feasibility of a more flexible rollout. The trial will recruit over 1,050 volunteers, aged 50 and above, who have received their first jab within the past eight to 12 weeks. These individuals, who were administered either the Oxford-AstraZeneca or Pfizer vaccine, will be randomly assigned to receive either the same vaccine for their second dose or a dose of the Moderna or Novavax inoculations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The trial involves six new arms, each recruiting 175 candidates, adding a total of 1,050 new participants to the program.
  • The study will compare immune system responses to the standard responses reported in previous clinical trials of each vaccine.
  • The analysis will assess the effectiveness of mixed schedules in generating an immune response comparable to standard schedules, without significantly increasing vaccine reactions.
  • The trial aims to increase vaccine resilience by demonstrating the feasibility of using alternative vaccines in case of a shortfall in supply.
  • The study received funding of £7 million from the government through the Vaccines Taskforce.

The participants, who have received either the Oxford-AstraZeneca or Pfizer vaccine, will be randomly allocated to receive either the same vaccine for their second dose or a dose of the Moderna or Novavax inoculations.

The study's chief investigator, Matthew Snape, Associate Professor in Paediatrics and Vaccinology at the University of Oxford, notes that if the mixed schedules generate an immune response as good as the standard schedules, this would allow more people to complete their COVID-19 immunisation course more rapidly.

Statistics:

  • 175 candidates will be recruited in each of the six new arms, adding 1,050 new participants to the existing program.
  • The trial will involve a total of 1,125 participants (175 x 6 + 75 existing participants).
  • £7 million in funding was received from the government through the Vaccines Taskforce.
  • The study aims to assess the effectiveness of mixed vaccine schedules in generating an immune response comparable to the standard schedules.

Sources:

  • "AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine contracts not expected to be renewed by EU" (BBC News, 2021)
  • Vaccines Taskforce (gov.uk)

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