Volunteers needed for Halifax swine flu vaccine trials

Health researchers in Halifax are looking for volunteers to take part in clinical trials for the swine flu vaccine.

Dr. Joanne Langley of the IWK Health Centre is heading up the clinical trials and said they need 60 adult Nova Scotians and 25 children to take part in the trials.

"The main reason that people tend to participate in a study like this is altruism. They want to be involved in scientific research, recognizing that research is how we improve patient care," Langley said Monday.

But the volunteers need to meet certain criteria.

Langley said they need healthy young adults, preferably under age 40, who wouldnt need to get a flu vaccine, and healthy children aged six months to nine years who havent previously been given a vaccine.

Some parents are open to the idea of getting involved.

Amanda Waldick said she would definitely consider taking part in the clinical trial, especially since it involves the IWK, where her young son was born.

Others also see the value in signing up.

November target for vaccine

"Yeah, absolutely. That's how medicine and health learn," said Trina Burden.

Clinical trials here will lead to the vaccine getting approval from Health Canada. So far, things are still on target for having the vaccine ready across the country by mid-November.

But there are some doubters about the necessity of getting a swine flu vaccine shot.

"I think its probably unnecessary," said Alicia Mintzes. "I dont really think that if there was one [vaccine], that I would get it. I think its not nearly as big a problem as its made out to be."

Langley said prevention is always a wise move.

"As a physician, I dont want people to get the severe form of the disease, or even the moderate form where you have to come into hospital," she said.

"So, not having any way to predict whos going to have those severe outcomes, I would recommend people get the pandemic vaccine."

Anyone interested in taking part in the clinical trial should call Darlene at (902)-470-8931. People eligible tobe included inthe trial will be compensated for their time commitment.