Coronavirus research passes one million participants

New data from the National Institute for Health Research has shown that more than one million participants have now taken part in coronavirus research across the UK.

The data shows that a total of 1,075,000 participants have taken part in coronavirus research, across more than 180 studies. Of these, more than 100 studies were funded by the NIHR, amounting to more than £108 million given to dedicated coronavirus research.

Such efforts have enabled world-leading research into therapeutics such as dexamethasone and tocilizumab and delivery of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine. Platform studies such as RECOVERY, PRINCIPLE and REMAP-CAP have all made a significant contribution to the global understanding of the pandemic.

The NIHR and NHS are now launching the #ResearchVsCovid ‘thank you’ campaign to celebrate the efforts of participants, researchers and healthcare professionals for their involvement in coronavirus research.

Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England and co-lead for the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), said: “Reaching one million participants in Covid-19 research shows the impressive selflessness of people across the UK who have volunteered to take part. This research has led to vaccines, better treatments and improved care. A huge thank you to everyone who has taken part in, led or enabled the research.”