Can a New Vaccine Stop Norovirus? Cornwall Researchers Seek Volunteers for Groundbreaking Trial

Researchers at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT) are seeking volunteers for a major clinical trial aimed at combating norovirus, one of the most common causes of stomach bugs in the UK. The trial, known as the Nova 301 Trial, is investigating whether a new mRNA vaccine could protect against the symptoms caused by this persistent virus.

What Is Norovirus?

Norovirus is notorious for spreading easily, especially in environments such as care homes, hospitals, and schools. The virus is transmitted through food, contaminated surfaces, or person-to-person contact. While many people recover within a few days, it can cause severe symptoms in vulnerable groups, often leading to the need for medical care.

Currently, there is no vaccine available to prevent norovirus infection, but this trial could change that.

The Nova 301 Trial: Who Can Participate?

The Nova 301 Trial is a Phase 3 clinical trial, meaning it’s the final stage before the vaccine could be approved for public use, pending approval from the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.

The trial is open to individuals aged 60 or over who are in good health. Participants must not have chronic gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or colitis, or any other medical condition that causes regular vomiting or diarrhoea.

Researchers are looking to recruit around 25,000 participants globally, with the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust playing a key role in this effort.

How Does the Trial Work?

Participants in the trial will be given either the investigational vaccine or a placebo jab—an inactive substance. The trial will last for up to 25 months, during which participants will need to attend up to seven clinic visits.

The Nova 301 Trial team will support participants throughout the process and ensure they fully understand the details of the trial, including any potential risks, before they agree to take part. This process is known as informed consent.

How to Get Involved

If you’re interested in participating in the Nova 301 Trial, more information is available by contacting the trial team at RCHT via email at rcht.vaccineresearch@nhs.net.

Participants will be reimbursed for their time and any travel expenses related to the trial by Moderna, the company behind the investigational vaccine and the Nova 301 Trial programme.

This trial could provide a much-needed solution to combat the rapid spread of norovirus, especially in high-risk settings. For more details, contact the team today to see if you qualify for this vital research.