Clinical Trials

At Wits VIDA, clinical trials are at the heart of our mission to make life count through science. We design and conduct high-quality, ethically sound clinical research that evaluates vaccines, treatments, and interventions aimed at reducing the burden of infectious diseases in Africa and worldwide.

Our trials cover a wide spectrum — from maternal and infant vaccines to respiratory pathogens, antimicrobial resistance, and novel therapies. Each study is carried out by experienced medical professionals, supported by advanced laboratory infrastructure, rigorous data systems, and strong community partnerships.

Through our clinical trials, we:

  • Generate evidence that shapes global health policies and immunisation programmes.

  • Provide communities with access to cutting-edge vaccines and interventions.

  • Train and mentor the next generation of African clinical researchers.

  • Uphold the highest standards of ethics, safety, and scientific integrity.

With more than two decades of expertise and partnerships with leading global health organisations, VIDA continues to be a trusted leader in clinical trials that save lives and improve health outcomes.

COVID-19 Response

The Oxford Vaccine Trials

Wits VIDA championed Africa’s participation in the race for a COVID-19 vaccine. The ChAdOx1 nCoV19 vaccine was Africa’s first COVID-19 vaccine study, and Wits VIDA leads the national coordination of seven trial sites around the country. The trial enrolled volunteers across seven sites in South Africa and determined that a two-dose regimen of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine provides minimal protection against mild-moderate COVID-19 infection from the B.1.351 coronavirus variant first identified in South Africa in mid-November 2020. The findings have been published in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine (March 2021).

Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine Trials

Wits VIDA led this Phase 2 NVX-CoV2373 study in South Africa that successfully enrolled 2,904 volunteers 18-84-years-old. Results of the Novavax COVID-19vaccine trial in SA and UK have confirmed high levels of efficacy against the original and variant COVID-19.