Warp Speed for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccines: Why Are Children Stuck in Neutral?. (18th September 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Anderson, Evan J; Campbell, James D; Creech, C Buddy; Frenck, Robert; Kamidani, Satoshi; Munoz, Flor M; Nachman, Sharon; Spearman, Paul
• Is Part Of: Clinical infectious diseases. Volume 73:Number 2(2021)
• Page Start: 336
• Page End: 340
• Publication Date: 2020-09-18
• Subjects: SARS-CoV-2 -- pediatric -- immunize -- immunization -- vaccination; Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; 616.905
• DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1425
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1058-4838

Abstract

Abstract: While adult clinical trials of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines have moved quickly into phase 3 clinical trials, clinical trials have not started in children in the United States. The direct COVID-19 impact upon children is greater than that observed for a number of other pathogens for which we now have effective pediatric vaccines. Additionally, the role of children in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission has clearly been underappreciated. Carefully conducted phase 2 clinical trials can adequately address potential COVID-19 vaccine safety concerns. Delaying phase 2 vaccine clinical trials in children will delay our recovery from COVID-19 and unnecessarily prolong its impact upon children's education, health, and emotional well-being, and equitable access to opportunities for development and social success. Given the potential direct and indirect benefits of pediatric vaccination, implementation of phase 2 clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccines should begin now. Abstract : While COVID-19 vaccines have moved quickly into adult Phase 3 clinical trials, clinical trials have not started in children in the US. Given potential direct and indirect benefits, implementation of pediatric COVID-19 Phase II vaccine clinical trials should begin now.