TAG and AVAC are circulating this statement and seeking endorsements from organizations that agree with our position: https://forms.gle/xatyJBaePmbh25Pw7As background, challenge trials involve deliberate exposure to a pathogen in order to test vaccines. Typically they involve pathogens for which treatments are available (malaria challenge studies are probably the best known example). A human challenge with SARS-CoV-2 would obviously be very different given the lack of effective treatments and the poorly understood potential consequences of infection, even in young people. Our prior joint statement is available at: https://www.avac.org/press-release/statement-ethical-conduct-challenge-studiesAnd guiding principles for when challenge studies might be considered are here: https://bit.ly/2CE8slzPlease share the statement with any contacts who might be interested, and feel free to get in touch with any questions.Thanks,Richard
About AVAC: Founded in 1995, AVAC is a non-profit organization that uses education, policy analysis, advocacy and a network of global collaborations to accelerate the ethical development and global delivery of HIV prevention options as part of a comprehensive response to the pandemic. For more information, visit www.avac.org.
About TAG: Treatment Action Group (TAG) is an independent, activist and community-based research and policy think tank fighting for better treatment, prevention, a vaccine and a cure for HIV, tuberculosis and hepatitis C virus. TAG works to ensure that all people with HIV, TB and HCV receive lifesaving treatment, care and information. We are science-based treatment activists working to expand and accelerate vital research and effective community engagement with research and policy institutions. For more information, visit www.treatmentactiongroup.org.