Research Participants Begin H1N1 Clinical Trial At Vanderbilt

News Channel 5 Posted: Aug 11, 2009 6:40 AM CDT Research Participants Begin H1N1 Clinical Trial At Vanderbilt2:22 NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Clinical trials are underway in the mid-state to get an H1N1 vaccination to the public as quickly as possible. Vanderbilt University Hospital was one of a handful of medical institutions testing the shot. Many people worry about being the first to test new medicines and vaccines. The participants said they were actually excited to take part in something that could really help the health of our country. "It's interesting plus it helps people. I'm not doing it for the money, but I found out they pay you anyway. I didn't realize that until I signed up," said research participant Don Brownlee. Hundreds of adults and children will participate in Vanderbilt's research. If the trial goes well and is approved by the FDA, the vaccine could hit the public just in time for flu season. The vaccine would require two doses given one month apart. "We really feel that what we're doing is very important for the nation. We feel it's very important for us to know how well the vaccines work," said Dr. Kathryn Edwards, Vanderbilt University Hospital. After more than 200 people go through the trial, Vanderbilt will begin another round focusing on children. Several special studies could follow that focus on specialized groups like pregnant women and people suffering from AIDS. The studies will test the safety and effectiveness of vaccines developed by drug makers. If all goes well, health officials expect to have about 160 million doses available for fall. For more information on the H1N1 Clinical Trials at Vanderbilt CLICK HERE. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Researchers at Vanderbilt's Vaccine Research Program are looking for healthy volunteers age 65 years and older for a research study involving the H1N1 flu vaccine. The participation requirement for this study is approximately 7 to 8 months. Participants will be compenstaed a total of $260 for their time and travel. For more information or to see if you qualify, please email: vaccineresearch@vanderbilt.edu or call (615) 322-2730.