ZosterFluCov study
Researchers at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) and North Bristol NHS Trust are recruiting for volunteers to join a study called looking at co-administration of the shingles vaccine with either the COVID-19 or flu vaccine (ZosterFluCOV)
Are you aged 50 or over?
Researchers are testing the efficacy of giving the shingles vaccine at the same time as the flu or COVID-19 vaccine and would like to welcome volunteers. In the UK a shingles vaccine is offered to people when they reach 65, or anyone who is severely immunosuppressed and over 50 . Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are also offered to people in this age group.
If we could give the shingles vaccine at the same time as either the flu or COVID-19 vaccine it may make it easier for people, and for GPs, as fewer appointments would be needed.
Symptoms of shingles include a tingling or painful feeling in an area of skin, a headache or feeling unwell, and a rash which may develop into itchy blisters. Many people have pain at the site of the infection that can go on for many years and is difficult to treat. The vaccine stops most people getting shingles but those that do have a milder and shorter illness. It is okay to have the shingles vaccine if you have had shingles before, it will boost your immunity.
Am I Eligible?
- Are you aged 50 or over?
- Has it been more than 5 years since you received a vaccine for shingles?
- Are you vaccinated for COVID-19 in line with government guidelines?
What does the study involve?
We will ask you to come to your local site on 6 separate occasions.
We will take blood samples at each appointment and you will receive vaccinations at the first, third and fifth visits. If applicable, you will also need to perform a urine pregnancy test at each vaccination visit.
If you are eligible we will randomise you to one of five groups, the group you are randomised to will determine whether you receive the shingles vaccine at the same time as either the flu or COVID-19 vaccine. You will be free to end your participation in the study at any stage and we will not require a reason.
Will I be compensated?
Yes. You will be compensated for your time, the inconvenience of giving blood and procedures and your travel expenses. The total amount compensated will be up to £45 per visit.
How do I take part?
Here is a Participant Information Leaflet giving further details of the trial.
Participant Information Leaflet
If after reading the Participant Information Leaflet you would like to find out more about taking part, please follow the link below to a pre-screening questionnaire.
The study is funded by GlaxoSmithKline Ltd (GSK).
CI: Dr Rajeka Lazarus, University of Bristol
Sponsor: University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust
Start Date: 29/09/23
Planned End Date: 02/03/24
Local Ref: 5338