Banbury Cross Health Centre encourages patients to participate in Covid-19 study

The centre’s Dr James Kennard said The University of Oxford study into whether existing antibiotics can reduce symptoms is ‘crucial’.

Anyone aged 50 and over with selected underlying health conditions, or people aged over 65 regardless of underlying health conditions can take part by registering online. Residents registered at Banbury Cross Health Centre can also talk to their GP about participating.

The Platform Randomised trial of Interventions against Covid-19 in older people (PRINCIPLE) trial is evaluating whether a seven-day course of antibiotics azithromycin or doxycycline can reduce the severity of Covid-19 symptoms in vulnerable groups to avoid hospital admission.

Dr Kennard said: “I’m pleased that we’re supporting this crucial study to help find the best treatments for Covid-19, to help reduce the severity of symptoms and the risk of hospital admission for patients.

“I would encourage anybody in the eligible age group, registered with any GP surgery, to participate if they develop Covid-19 symptoms by visiting the PRINCIPLE website or phoning the study team.”

People aged 50 to 64 with at least one of the below conditions can apply to take part:

· weakened immune system due to a serious illness or medication (e.g. chemotherapy)

· heart disease or high blood pressure

· asthma or lung disease

· known diabetes

· liver disease

· stroke or neurological problem

· obesity

The trial is funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

Anyone interested in the study can register online at principletrial.org or call 0800 138 0880.