PANJIM: Son of the soil Dr Vikram Talaulikar MD, is a volunteer in UCLH Oxford vaccine human trials.
Talaulikar, specialist in reproductive medicine at University College London Hospital said, “At this time, there are no specific vaccines or treatments for COVID-19. However, there are many ongoing clinical trials across the world, which are evaluating potential treatments.”
He added that the need of the hour is to set up and complete clinical trials, which can lead to the development of a vaccine or medication that would be effective in preventing the infection or reducing the severity of the illness.
“The COV002 vaccine trial is one of such trial which is testing how well a new vaccine developed by the Oxford Vaccine Group works against COVID-19. As a doctor and scientist working in one of the topmost University College Hospitals in London, it was an honour for me to participate in this trial and contribute to the science,” he added.
His parents, Ritha Talaulikar and Dr Vijay Talaulikar, obstetrician and gynaecologist, served Goa for 40 years before retiring in 2009. Vikram is now settled in UK with his wife and daughter.
Asked what safety measures have been provided to him, he replied that the trial is being performed with robust monitoring and safety standards in place. From the starting point of consenting for the trial until completion, there are various check points where symptoms, swabs, blood tests will be carried out to check for signs of infection, any side effects and changes in serology (blood parameters). As a doctor who comes into contact with patients, robust PPE procedures have been put into place in clinical settings to avid risk of any infection transmission.
Asked, if successful, when will the vaccine hit the market he said, “The vaccine being tested is a weakened version of an adenovirus (common cold virus) from chimpanzees that has been genetically changed. To this virus genes have been added which make proteins from the COVID-19 virus which play an essential role in infection pathway. The hope is that body will develop an immune response to this spike glycoprotein which can help stop virus from entering the human cells. It is difficult to predict accurately at this stage but if sufficient recruitment happens and the data is promising, we may see the vaccine ready for use before the end of this year.”
Vikram also explained that it is important to follow the WHO advice until a vaccine or effective treatment against the infection is found. Social distancing, use of hand washing/sanitisers and use of face masks in enclosed spaces are the cornerstone to reducing the burden of the disease.
