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COVID-19 vaccines

Youngsters Join Covid-19 Vaccine Trial to Make a Difference

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the world continues to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, young volunteers are stepping up to participate in a vaccine trial to help bring an end to the outbreak. Children as young as six are taking part in a new study to test the effectiveness of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine in children aged between six and 17. The trial, led by the University of Oxford, aims to recruit 300 volunteers to measure the immune response to the vaccine in this age group. The youngsters, who have seen their families and communities affected by the pandemic, say they want to "make a difference" and contribute to the fight against the virus.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine is being tested in a new trial involving 300 children aged between six and 17 to determine its effectiveness in this age group.
  • The trial, led by the University of Oxford, aims to assess the immune response to the vaccine in children.
  • Young volunteers, including 12-year-old Sylvia and 16-year-old Meara, have spoken about their reasons for participating in the trial, citing a desire to "make a difference" and help combat the pandemic.
  • The trial is crucial in establishing the safety and efficacy of the vaccine in children and young people, with Chief Investigator Andrew Pollard noting that while most children are relatively unaffected by COVID-19, some may benefit from vaccination.
  • The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health has highlighted the evidence that COVID-19 can cause death and severe illness in children, although this is rare.

Statistics:

  • 300 children will participate in the trial aged between six and 17.
  • 240 children will receive the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, while the others will receive a control meningitis jab.
  • Over 15.5 million adults in the UK have now had their first dose of the vaccine.
  • The University of Oxford claims to be the first trial in the 6-17 age group, with other trials having started but only measuring efficacy in those aged 16 and 17.

Sources:

  • The Mirror: Andrew Pollard, Professor of Paediatric Infection and Immunity, and Chief Investigator on the Oxford vaccine trial, citing the importance of the trial.
  • ITV News: Meara, 16, speaking about her decision to participate in the trial to make a difference.
  • Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health: Evidence statement highlighting the risks of COVID-19 in children and the need for vaccination.

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