Trial begins of first vaccine against Ross River Virus
Perth researchers are seeking volunteers to test the effectiveness of a vaccine against the debilitating Ross River Virus.
The study is being conducted by the Vaccine Trials Group at the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research in conjunction with Princess Margaret Hospital for Children and the University of Western Australia School of Paediatrics.
Study leader at the Vaccine Trials Group, Associate Professor Peter Richmond, said Ross River Virus was a significant problem in WA, particularly for people in the South West.
"We know that we get the most notifications of the disease in the Kimberley and in a belt from Mandurah to Capel, but there are cases throughout Western Australia," Associate Professor Richmond said.
"At the moment, the only way to reduce your risk is to take measures to avoid bites from mosquitoes so a vaccine would be very welcomed by a lot of people in high risk areas."
There are more than 5000 cases of Ross River Disease in Australia each year. In the last 10 years, the disease has been more prevalent among adults aged between 25 and 39 years of age.
Ross River virus symptoms can come on suddenly with most people experiencing a combination of arthritis, rash, fever and general fatigue. These symptoms usually resolve within 6 months but can last for up to a year.
Volunteers will be given a course of 3 vaccines from one of three batches of the trial vaccine and asked to keep a diary record of any symptoms during the study period for safety assessment and may undergo blood tests to assess the effectiveness of the vaccine.
Healthy people aged from 16 years of age who want to find out more can contact the Vaccine Trials Group on 9340 8542 or email rossriver@ichr.uwa.edu.au.
The vaccine has been developed by Baxter Healthcare Corporation.