Researchers are seeking volunteers for the BEATATRIX study, a world-first trial testing a new vaccine designed to combat Group B Streptococcus (GBS), a common cause of life-threatening infections in newborn babies. The Princess Royal Hospital in Telford, Shropshire is one of ten UK sites involved in administering the vaccine.
GBS can lead to sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis in newborns, potentially proving fatal within hours if untreated. In the UK and Ireland, approximately 1 in 1,750 babies contract GBS annually, resulting in around 50 deaths each year. A further 70 babies survive with long-term disabilities, including hearing loss, vision problems, and cerebral palsy. The study is supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and sponsored by Pfizer.
Professor Will Parry-Smith, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH), highlighted the critical need for a preventative vaccine. "Group B Streptococcus can cause serious illness in newborn babies, yet there is currently no licensed vaccine available," he stated. "The BEATRIX study is evaluating an investigational maternal vaccine and aims to expand our understanding of maternal immunisation against GBS."
The BEATRIX study is the first large-scale phase 3 vaccine trial for GBS globally. It involves researchers from the NHS and UK universities, alongside international partners. The vaccine works by stimulating maternal antibodies, which are then transferred to the foetus via the placenta, aiming to protect the infant during the first three months of life. Participants are randomised to receive either the vaccine or a placebo.
The trial is open to pregnant women for 14 months, extending to six months after delivery, and their babies for approximately 12 months post-birth. It is estimated that 70% vaccine coverage could prevent over 50,000 GBS-related deaths and 170,000 pre-term births annually worldwide. For more information, individuals can visit the NIHR’s Be Part of Research service online or via the NHS app, or email sath.research.maty@nhs.net.
Menna Hulme, a 32-year-old farmer from Cockshutt, near Ellesmere, was the first European participant in the BEATRIX study. Having experienced GBS in previous pregnancies, she volunteered for the trial. "I was chuffed to be the first European participant," she said. "I just wish ladies in general could have more faith in vaccines and the advice from healthcare professionals and that the uptake was better."
Professor Paul Heath, Chief Investigator of the BEATRIX study, reiterated the importance of the research, stating, "Research such as this is important in helping build the evidence needed to address a significant unmet public health need."
Professor Matthew Brookes, Network Director of the RDN in the West Midlands, commented on the study's impact, saying, "This study is a great example of the practical and life-saving impact that people can have by taking part in research."
Professor Lucy Chappell, CEO of the NIHR, emphasised the value of participation: "Every woman who takes part is helping generate the evidence needed to advance this promising new vaccine and shift towards preventing life-threatening infections before they take hold."
