Sheffield At Forefront Of Key Covid-19 Research

Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is taking part in a number of research studies to develop understanding of Covid-19 and progress the development of possible future treatments for the virus.

The projects are aimed at understanding the basic biology of the coronavirus, its symptoms, and testing and finding drugs and future potential treatments.

As well as undertaking research trials, the teams involved are using observational studies and data to track and understand the behaviour of the virus, with further research projects being established.

Professor Simon Heller, Research and Development Director, said:
“Participation in these studies, which take place under carefully controlled conditions, gives patients the opportunity to contribute to research which has the potential to benefit not only the care of people locally, but also provide vitally important information both nationally and internationally.”

The studies are being delivered by integrated teams across the Trust including those from Infectious Diseases, Intensive Care, the Emergency Department, Respiratory Medicine and surgical teams amongst others.

The Trust is working in partnership with the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and the University of Sheffield to undertake the research.

Covid-19 studies have been given priority status by the Chief Medical Officer for England and the Department of Health and Social Care.

Possible participants who are able to consent will be approached and asked if they would like to take part.

Professor Heller said:
“It is a great achievement for the whole team here – the medics, research coordinators and support staff, the Clinical Research Facility, pharmacy and laboratories to establish the set-up of these trials so quickly.

“This is due to the dedication and support of everybody involved, because we understand that these trials are key to getting potential treatments to our patients.

“The work we are doing will help us to understand how the virus behaves, why some people are affected more severely than others and who is most at risk.

“Every time someone takes part in research they are enhancing our understanding, so it is vital that we are able to recruit those patients who are willing and able to take part in research, and I would like to thank all patients who are already participating in this vital work.”