Central Queensland Public Health Unit is leading a clinical trial which will help inform the development of a vaccine for chlamydia.
The most reported sexually transmitted infection in young people in Australia, it is estimated that less than a third of people with chlamydia get diagnosed.
Director of Public Health Professor Gulam Khandaker is leading the trial in Central Queensland, working with Blood-Borne Virus and Sexual Health (BBV/SH) Service and True Relationships in Rockhampton, as well as Gold Coast, Cairns and Townsville Hospital and Health Services.
The team has screened nearly 500 young men and women (aged 18 to 29) as part of the trial and all the positive cases of chlamydia will be monitored for the next six months as part of the trial.
“Screening is now complete for the Central Queensland Public Health Unit site, and BBV/SH and True will continue screening until May 26,” Prof Khandaker said. “We were blown away by the level of support for this important trial. We had hoped to test about 170 people and have far exceeded that. These people are making a big difference to prevent this sexually transmitted infection.
“The information we gather from the positive cases will be used to develop a vaccine.
“Our team is very excited to be leading this clinical trial. Chlamydia is one of the most diagnosed sexually transmitted infections, and we are keen to use our research expertise to make a lasting difference to our community.”
If left untreated, chlamydia can have long-term effects on fertility and reproductive health. Treatment is done with a single dose or course of antibiotics.
Clinical Trials taking off in CQ
CQ Health is celebrating International Clinical Trials Day on 20 May. The team has been working hard to bring care closer to home and attract clinical trials (including tele-trials) as standard of care to the people of Central Queensland.
The Clinical Trial Unit of Rockhampton Hospital is looking forward to participating in trials such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, palliative care, and lung screening.
There is also ongoing consultation with sponsors to bring trials involving other disease states, as well as supporting and developing the oncology trial space.