Clinical Trials

The concept of infection of volunteers was initiated at the Common Cold Unit, Salisbury in 1948 (Tyrrell & Fields, 2002). Groups of 20-30 volunteers were housed in detached warden buildings and were physically isolated from both staff and co volunteers. Our group used the largest volunteers group, in excess of 100 persons to test a genetically modified influenza B virus (Oxford, et al 1978, Oxford, et al 1990).

More recently Retroscreen has re-established a quarantine unit in London able to infect up to 100 volunteers (Fries, et al 2004). Based on Professor John Oxford's experience and under the supervision of Dr Rob Lambkin as the Principle Investigator Retroscreen Virology has conducted eight Clinical Studies in recent years. We are now planning to expand these studies to include other respiratory viruses.

If you would like to volunteer to participate in such a study please use the contact form here.