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The article examines whether rapid clinical trial methodologies developed during previous Ebola outbreaks can be effectively deployed to test antiviral drugs and antibody treatments during new Ebola epidemics. Researchers have developed innovative trial designs to evaluate therapeutics during unpredictable outbreak conditions, but significant logistical and operational challenges remain when implementing these strategies in affected regions. The piece discusses lessons learned from past outbreak responses and the readiness of the scientific community to conduct expedited drug trials.
Why it matters
Establishing effective protocols for rapid therapeutic testing during Ebola outbreaks could save lives by quickly identifying treatments that work while maintaining scientific rigor. These trial strategies may also serve as models for responding to other emerging infectious disease threats where traditional lengthy clinical trial approaches are impractical.
Past outbreaks spawned clever strategies for testing antivirals and antibodies, but researchers will still face major challenges on the ground
Source: Can fast, nimble clinical trials deliver a drug to halt the new Ebola outbreak?