Human Challenge Trial (HCT) for COVID-19 Vaccine Development; How possible is it

The rapid spread of the coronavirus worldwide has caused scientist seeking faster ways to develop vaccines for the disease. However the development of a vaccine takes years and sometimes decades. The Human challenge trial has been one of the proposed methods to the fast development of a vaccine. Researchers are recruiting volunteers for a potential challenge trial to help develop a vaccine against the virus. Although this method might just be a possible way out of this dilemma, it is necessary to realise that various factors needs to be addressed as regards this trial. The risk to the participants involved in the study has to be assessed and compared to the benefits to the society if the vaccine is a success. This article gives a perspective of some of the factors needed to be considered by investigators seeking such trials.