I wanted to bring you an update and send my best wishes in these unprecedented times. I expect it may have been a very difficult Easter for many of you, being unable to spend time with family and friends and struggling with all the hardships and uncertainties this pandemic has brought. My thoughts are with all those who are sick and those who have lost loved ones. A heartfelt thanks goes to all my former colleagues in the NHS and to key workers who are working to save lives and keep our country going. Myself and my wife are self-isolating at home, in accordance with the government guidelines. We are very lucky to have a garden in which to enjoy the beautiful Spring sunshine. Please stay home too, stay safe and don’t lose hope!
As with so
many things, covid-19 is having a major impact on research. At the point
at which the pandemic struck, our Phase II vaccine trial was set up and
awaiting the final local authorisations to begin. However, all clinical
research not directly related to coronavirus has now been paused. This
is because taking part in a trial would put patients at risk of catching
covid-19, due to the travel involved as well as the inability to
maintain social distancing during appointments. Similarly, all
laboratory research not related to coronavirus is also on hold (due to
the risk of spreading the virus with staff travelling to and from work)
and King’s College London is closed. Hence work on our MAP test is
currently paused too. We will be ready to go as soon as social
distancing requirements are relaxed and permission is given for
non-covid related clinical trials to restart and labs to re-open.
I would like to thank all our wonderful supporters for your continuing support during this very difficult time.