European & Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership - Ebola

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BackgroundThe outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in West Africa has catalysed a number of research anddevelopment activities that are focused on delivering effective therapeutic, diagnostic and preventiveinterventions. However, the successful testing and implementation of these interventions requires theavailability of functioning health research infrastructures and increased research capacity in theaffected countries, as well as the willingness of affected populations to engage in research anddevelopment activities. The region affected by the current EVD outbreak had very weak research andhealth care delivery systems following years of civil conflict that left health infrastructures badlydamaged or destroyed. Since the outbreak started, existing research and health care services andavailable human resources have been completely overwhelmed by the demand placed upon them. Inview of this, the European & Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP) and the SpecialProgramme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (WHO-TDR) have decided to launch a Callfor Proposals to cater for long-term solutions and capacity development around operational and otherclinical research during infectious disease outbreaks resulting in health emergencies. The UK MedicalResearch Council (MRC UK) has also committed to participate in this joint initiative.Overview of the Call for ProposalsThe current research activities being conducted in the affected area are focused on the treatment,prevention and containment of EVD. However, there is still a need for approaches that focus onstrengthening human and health system capacity, including developing approaches that address thesocial nature of the emergency situation. This is a niche that will be addressed by this Call forProposals, which will support activities focusing on:? Capacities of health care workers and laboratory personnel in the conduct of clinical trials in anemergency context? Health system and clinical trial site preparedness? Ethics and regulatory issues in the management of research during emergencies? Community and national health authority support and engagement? Development of guidelines and policies to ensure the protection and safety of health care givers inthe handling of infective materials.This Call for Proposals will complement, add value to and sustain the gains that have been achievedduring the current acute response. The work supported will instil long-term preparedness, not only forEVD, but for any future emergencies that may be caused by outbreaks of other emerging infectiousdiseases.