Cornish MP takes part in trial of potential Covid-19 vaccine
The Phase 3 trial will test the safety and effectiveness
Last updated 18th Nov 2020
A Cornish MP is taking part in the Novavax Covid-19 vaccine trial.
Steve Double, who represents St Austell and Newquay, is taking part in the Phase 3 trial for the biotechnology company Novavax’s coronavirus vaccine.
The Phase 3 trial will test the safety and effectiveness of the promising new vaccine across a broad spectrum of people, including those from a variety age groups and backgrounds.
Phase 3 studies involve people giving researchers insights into the effects of a vaccine on a much larger population than phase 1 and 2 studies.
Hundreds of people in Cornwall needed to take part in new Covid-19 vaccine studies
“When I heard about the Phase 3 trial for this important vaccine being held in Cornwall I was keen to find out more and offer myself as a volunteer for the vaccine. I am pleased that having been assessed I have been accepted for the trial and had the first dose of the vaccine on Monday.
“With my role as Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, I have attended dozens of meetings with Ministerial colleagues, the Department of Health and the NHS and know first hand how important it is to find a effective and safe vaccine to bring an end to this crisis. A huge amount of effort is being put into finding a vaccine but none will be licensed for use unless successful clinical trials are able to take place.
“Taking part in this trial is something I can do personally to help this cause and I am happy to sign up and do my bit. I will now be closely monitored over the coming weeks as part of the trial and await its outcome with interest.”
Steve Double, MP for St Austell and Newquay