The ANCHOR trial is investigating a new medication which uses an anti-viral drug and combines it with an antibody, allowing it to stay in the body for a number of weeks. It is hoped this new treatment could give vulnerable patients extra protection against the flu virus.
The first participant in Leeds, 75-year-old Phillip Hatton from Kirkstall, received his initial treatment.
Mr Hatton learned about the study through a friend and said he was keen to take part. “Getting involved in research is a good thing to do,” he said. “It’s also good to support medical research. So far it’s been a good experience. The staff have been great!”
Participation in the trial has involved clinic visits at the NIHR Leeds Clinical Research Facility, telephone appointments and completing an online diary. On day one, Mr Hatton reviewed the study with a doctor, signed consent forms, and underwent tests including blood work, an electrocardiogram (ECG) and flu and Covid screening. He then received three subcutaneous injections of the study drug. Follow-up will continue for six and a half months to assess the impact of the new medication.
Dr Fiona McGill, Consultant in Infectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology at LTH said: “We’re delighted to see the first participant begin treatment on the ANCHOR trial. This research has real potential to improve how we protect vulnerable people from influenza and we’re grateful to volunteers like Mr Hatton for their commitment. Their involvement helps us take important steps toward developing better options for patients in the future.”
The rapid and successful recruitment to the ANCHOR trial was achieved through the hard work and collaboration of teams across multiple specialties at LTH. Under the leadership of Principal Investigator Dr Fiona McGill and Team Leader/Senior Clinical Research Nurse, Claire Reidy, and with vital support from colleagues in Pharmacy, Labs, the Set Up Team, the Business Team, and the RDN Agile Team, this achievement reflects exceptional teamwork and dedication.