Researchers at the University of the Sunshine Coast are set to trial a medication aimed at protecting immune-compromised people against current Omicron variants of COVID-19.

UniSC Clinical Trials will conduct a clinical trial for a possible new treatment for the prevention of COVID-19 in immunosuppressed or people who can’t mount a normal immune response to a COVID-19 infection or vaccine.

This study will take place at the Sunshine Coast trials centre at Sippy Downs.

Principal Investigator Dr Robert Scott said despite the rollout of effective vaccines which have significantly reduced the morbidity and mortality associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, up to three in 10 of our population remain at risk of severe and fatal COVID-19 due to their inability to mount an adequate immune response.

“We have a lot of applications from people with compromised immune systems who are often disappointed when they are excluded from a trial due to their condition.

“We’re excited to offer this trial to a group who are keen to advance medical research for immunocompromised people,” he said.

Lindley Mattiazzi, Clinical Trials Coordinator, said the team is now seeking applications from adults who are taking medications that cause immune impairment, have a cancer diagnosis, or have a disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or similar and are taking an immune modulating medication like methotrexate.

“It’s a really specific group of people that we’re looking for, but we think it’s going to provide some really important data to help protect immunocompromised people,” Ms Mattiazzi said.

Eligible participants will be required to attend up to 12 visits at the Sunshine Coast clinic over approximately 15 months. Extra visits may be needed if participants develop COVID-19 symptoms.

Those interested in participating can find more information at www.usc.edu.au/trials.

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