We know that patients on moderate to severe forms of immunosuppressive therapy can have less that optimal responses to COVID-19 vaccine boosters. Few studies have investigated the best time to give vaccine boosters in people facing new immunosuppression, for example as part of treatment for haematological malignancies or autoimmune/inflammatory conditions.
The CIRCUIT Study is a Randomised Control Trial (RCT) of people with haematological malignancies or autoimmune/inflammatory condition commencing immunosuppressive therapy for the first time. Study participants will be randomised to receive a COVID-19 booster vaccine either prior to the onset of immunosuppression OR 6 months-post immunosuppression, when the most intensive phase of therapy is complete. A diphtheria-tetanus booster vaccine will be studied as a comparator booster vaccine.
The CIRCUIT Study involves a collaborative research network, with participants being invited to participate from Blacktown, Westmead, Concord, St Vincent's Hospital and Royal Prince Alfred Hospitals being invited to participate.
The CIRCUIT Study will measure the COVID-19 booster vaccine response using a live-virus neutralization assay at timepoints over a one-year period. At the end of the study period, these measurements will determine if greater protection from COVID-19 disease is provided by administering the booster vaccine just prior to immunosuppression OR if there is higher protection by providing the booster vaccine 6 months after the onset of immunosuppression. This question has not been well answered to-date.
The CIRCUIT Study will provide important information on vaccine booster timing around the commencement of moderate to severe immunosuppression. This will be relevant to COVID-19 vaccines but also to more traditional forms of vaccine e.g. the diphtheria-tetanus vaccine. The ultimate goal of the CIRCUIT Study is to provide a rational evidence base to inform future national vaccination guidelines for at-risk groups.
MRFF - Coronovirus Research Response
- Western Sydney Local Health District
- Sydney Local Health District
- St Vincent's and Mater Health Australia
- NSW Health Pathology
- Westmead Kids
- University of Sydney.