Bird Flu Vaccine Study Seeks Volunteers

11/20/2018

Saint Louis University’s Center for Vaccine Development is conducting a  research study with an investigational bird flu vaccine and is seeking volunteers.

In April 2013, an outbreak of a new avian (bird) influenza A virus, the H7N9 virus, was reported in China. The H7N9 virus was also found in poultry, including chickens and ducks, in those areas. Many of the people infected with the H7N9 virus reported contact with live poultry.

Since that time, new avian influenza H7N9 viruses have appeared and continue to change and circulate in China, causing about 1,500 infections in humans. The recent rise in cases of bird flu strains in human populations in other parts of the world has increased efforts to be prepared in case of widespread infection.  A key to a successful plan is vaccine production. 

The purpose of this study is to research the safety and efficacy of an experimental vaccine developed to protect against the bird flu virus H7N9. 

To volunteer, participants must been between 18 and 64 years old.

It is not possible to contract bird flu from the vaccine.

Participants will receive $75 per visit and total participation will be for up to 13 months. Volunteering could include up to six clinic visits and five phone calls.

For more information, contact a nurse at 1-866-410-6333, email vaccine@slu.edu or visit the center. The study is #327 and its Institutional Review Board protocol number is #29587.

Sharon Frey, M.D., is the study’s principal investigator.