What is antibody-dependent enhancement in dengue trials?

Antibody-dependent enhancement means a subsequent dengue infection could be more severe due to imperfect antibodies from a previous exposure, increasing risk.

How much can participants earn in clinical trials like the dengue study?

Participants in the described dengue study could earn up to $3,425 for a 5-month commitment.

What are the ethical principles of human research like the dengue trial?

The Belmont Report outlines respect for persons (informed consent), beneficence (do no harm), and justice (fair distribution of risks and benefits).

Home / Health / I Got Dengue Fever to Test a New Vaccine

I Got Dengue Fever to Test a New Vaccine

18 Dec

•

Summary

The author volunteered for a dengue virus trial and was injected with a modified virus.
Ethical considerations involve risk-benefit analysis for participants and society.
Participants can receive up to $3,425, sparking debate on compensation ethics.

I Got Dengue Fever to Test a New Vaccine

A journalist participated in a Phase 2 clinical trial at Johns Hopkins, receiving an experimental dengue virus injection to test a potential vaccine. This involved a rigorous informed consent process and enduring flu-like symptoms, along with a lifelong increased risk of severe dengue.

The trial, which involved injecting a genetically modified dengue virus, aimed to evaluate an experimental drug's efficacy. The process included multiple infusions, blood draws, and a period of illness, raising ethical questions about participant risk and societal benefit.

Compensation for participating in such trials, up to $3,425 in this case, is a subject of ethical debate. While some argue for higher pay based on time and effort, others express concern that financial incentives might unduly influence vulnerable individuals.