Hong Kong - University - Industry Collaboration in Vaccine Effectiveness Research by Microprofit Biotech and the Fluorecare® Brand

In an exciting development, the LKS Faculty of Medicine School of Public Health, part of the renowned Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, has embarked on a significant research project in Hong Kong. The study, which has been approved by HKUIRB (UW19 - 089), aims to estimate the effectiveness of influenza and COVID - 19 vaccinations against medically - attended illness annually. Additionally, it seeks to assess the general immunity levels in patients who test positive for these infections and analyze factors influencing the severity of respiratory diseases.

The research methodology is comprehensive. It starts with a free rapid antigen test for eligible participants. The fluorecare® SARS - COV - 2 & INFLUENZA A/B & RSV ANTIGEN COMBO TEST KIT is prominently used in the first step of the testing process. This step also offers an optional Surescreen COVID - 19 and INFLUENZA A&B DUAL TEST.

Subsequently, PCR for lab testing is carried out using nose and throat swabs, with an optional parallel testing using rhinovirus swabs. Questionnaires covering medical history, vaccination history, and self - testing history are also part of the study. An optional blood take for antibody testing on the same day or between D28 - D42 is available as well.

What makes this project even more remarkable is the industry - university collaboration. After a thorough evaluation, the fluorecare® test kit has been identified as the preferred choice among various brands for this research. The manufacturer of the fluorecare® kit is honored to contribute to this outstanding research effort by the LKS Faculty of Medicine School of Public Health.

This collaboration not only showcases the potential of joint research endeavors between academia and industry but also holds great promise for improving our understanding of vaccine effectiveness and respiratory infection management in Hong Kong. As the study progresses, it is expected to yield valuable insights that could have far - reaching implications for public health policies and practices in the region.