Led by Oxford University, the trial investigates whether giving the new vaccine at the same time as the existing vaccine offers stronger protection against flu in over 65-year olds. Current vaccines are only effective in 30–40% of over 65s, as the immune system weakens with age. Researchers believe the vaccine could have a major impact on the worldwide fight against the virus, which affects about a billion people worldwide a year with 250,000 to 500,000 annual deaths.
The vaccine was first developed by Oxford University’s Jenner Institute with Vaccitech, a spin-out company from the institute now continuing clinical development.
Find out more (Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences website)