The Austrian "ever-warm clinical trial network" for pandemic preparedness is based on the existing cooperation of clinical research centres in Austria on corona studies (since 2020).
The cooperation is documented by the Austrian Covid-19 platform study Acovact and participation in the European Corona Vaccination Study Network "Vaccelerate". The aforementioned universities also had established a network of coordination centres for clinical trials (KKS).
The Austrian "ever-warm clinical trial network" stands for rapid and effective response times and measures in the event of (recurring or newly emerging) pandemics. Recognising new health risks for the European population and to react quickly to them is the aim of "pandemic preparedness". With the "ever-warm clinical trial network", we are creating the conditions in Austria for to generate scientifically sound data in a timely manner through clinical trials.
The networking of various university research centres and hospitals in Austria with different, complementary focal points forms an essential basis for the approach. Our aim is to optimise the entire process from risk assessment to the implementation of clinical research and communication with the public.
Our competence centres are experienced research facilities that can ensure that clinical trials are conducted to the highest quality standards. Clinical and translational studies are carried out on an ongoing basis at all sites, enabling to include a cross-section of the Austrian population due to the geographical distribution. Based on the size of the participating institutions, we have a broad basis for the most diverse requirements for clinical studies and can also carry out analyses that include special risk groups, such as the elderly population, pregnant women or immunocompromised persons. The network contributes its full expertise in adapting proven study designs to acute requirements.
The Austrian "ever-warm clinical trial network" is committed to contributing its expertise at European and international level, supporting international research activities and effectively utilising synergies. Members also have experience and expertise in EU-wide procedures and cooperation with EU partners, including the development and use of a centralised study protocol and coordinated data management. Through targeted and professional communication at all levels, the network supports the smooth running of clinical trials and the generation of scientific evidence in epidemic or pandemic emergency situations.
The Austrian "ever-warm clinical trial network" reports annually to the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection and the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research on clinical trials conducted in the field of infectious diseases.