UMass Medical School enrolls teens for a clinical trial to test the efficacy of the Modern COVID-19 vaccine in minors.
The trial, which begins early next month, will be the first time the shot has been tested on people under 18.
Moderna, the Cambridge biotechnology firm, expects 3,000 participants to test between 12 and 17 nationwide, including UMass Medical in Worcester. The study lasts a little over a year and includes six visits to the clinic. Two-thirds of participants receive the vaccine while the rest receive a placebo.
UMass researchers say they are trying to enroll participants from across the community, especially focusing on minority groups that have had a greater impact of the virus.
Moderna’s vaccination is currently allowed for adults 18 and older, while Pfizer’s are allowed for people 16 and older. Pfizer has a similar trial for those between 12 and 15.
Adolescents and their families can see if they are eligible for the trial and learn more at TeenCOVEStudy.com.
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