Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2009. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Bangkok Post - July 30, 2009
First, and most importantly, I did not say that the trial should never have taken place. In fact, I have personally been supportive of the trial for many years, as has the organisation that I direct.
The article states that both vaccines used in this approach had been proven ineffective in earlier Phase I and II trials. In fact, this is the first time this approach is being tested in a phase III efficacy trial. Both vaccines have been shown to be safe in extensive testing, and earlier trials of the AidsVax vaccine alone found no efficacy.
I want to underscore the great need to conduct efficacy trials such as this one to find the answers that will help move HIV vaccine research forward. We do not yet know whether or not this particular combination approach will be effective in preventing HIV infection, but, regardless of the results of this trial, researchers will glean important information that will help move Aids vaccine research forward.
HIV vaccine research is a step-wise process, and this trial is only one step in that process. No one trial can provide all of the answers we need, even for this vaccine combination. Whatever the results of this trial, the people of Thailand should be proud of the great contribution of the more than 16,000 volunteers and the trial staff and researchers who have made this historic trial possible.
MITCHELL WARREN
Executive Director, Aids Vaccine Advocacy Coalition (Avac)
See also: Aids activists cast doubt on vaccine trial: End result expected to have limited use
090730
BP090703
Copyright © 2009 - The Bangkok Post. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the Bangkok Post.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation and donations from users like you.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2009. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .