‘No downside’ to taking part in research - Michelle’s story

Michelle's story

When Michelle Hipwood received a text from a colleague about the HARMONIE trial of a vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), she immediately knew that she wanted her son Theo to benefit from taking part.

As a healthcare worker, Michelle is aware of how serious RSV can be and she was keen for Theo to be potentially immunised as part of the study.

Everything was clearly explained to her at a local health centre, and as she was on maternity leave, it was convenient for her to attend with baby Theo.

"He goes to nursery now and I do feel that the vaccine has probably made a difference. Compared to my other children he has far fewer issues with his chest. One of his siblings was hospitalised with asthma, so we are glad that Theo has nothing like that," said Michelle, of Dudley.

"It's so important for the future that volunteers come forward for trials, and I have recommended to various friends that they take part, as it was such a positive experience. Research prevented many more Covid deaths for example, so as long as it's the right thing for the individual, I can't see a downside"

The UK is the first country in the world to offer a national vaccination programme that uses the same vaccine to protect both infants and older adults from RSV.

Anyone interested in finding studies to take part in, can register at www.bepartofresearch.nihr.ac.uk.

ENDS

For further information contact: Claire Hall, Communications Lead on 07775 800227 email claireanne.hall@nihr.ac.uk