Coronavirus vaccine trials could begin in Sussex in September

Brighton and Sussex Medical School infectious diseases professor Martin Llewelyn said researchers across the country are getting ready now.

“We’re expecting the first big trials involving the public to start in September,” he said.

“The National Institute for Health Research will be setting up sites around the country, including Sussex and Brighton.

“We want to encourage members of the public to put themselves forward for the trials and make sure as many people as possible have the chance to participate

“It’s quite likely we will particularly want older members of the public to participate.

Infectious diseases expert Professor Martin Llewelyn said vaccine trials could start in Sussex in September

“It’s expected ten to 12 vaccines will be used in the trial. Some have been created by companies, others by universities.”

Anyone interested in participating in vaccine trials can express interest at nhs.uk/sign-up-to-be-contacted-for-research.

The news came as the Government signed a deal with pharmaceutical giants GlaxoSmithKline and Sanofi Pasteur for 60 million doses of a potential Covid-19 vaccine.

This is the fourth deal the Government has signed for potential coronavirus vaccines, worth a combined 250 million doses.

Business Secretary Alok Sharma said: “Scientists and researchers are racing to find a vaccine.”

• The coronavirus Sussex Crisis Fund has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic. The Argus’s charity and American Express have each donated £50,000 to kick-start the appeal. Grants will usually be for up to £5,000. More information is available at www.sussexgiving. org.uk/apply. To donate visit www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/sussexcrisisfund