We are working closely with the Department of Health
& Social Care (DHSC) and other healthcare partners,
contributing to the essential work needed to protect
public health in the UK.
We are prioritising work to support and authorise the
development of vaccines, clinical trials of new
medicines, and helping to manage the supply of
medicines and other healthcare products. We also
provide information to patients, manufacturers and
healthcare professionals through our established
information channels and alert systems.
NIBSC
The MHRA includes the National Institute for Biological
Standards and Control (NIBSC), which plays a major role
in assuring the quality of biological medicines,
worldwide. NIBSC is drawing on its expertise gained
through work on previous virus outbreaks such as Zika,
Ebola and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), to
support the public health response. NIBSC is
developing biological reference materials which are
needed to support a quick and reliable diagnosis of
infection, evaluate vaccines and the effectiveness of
treatments, all of which will assist public health
research.
NIBSC works closely with the World Health
Organization (WHO) and Coalition for Epidemic
Preparedness Innovations (CEPI); a global partnership
that facilitates the development of vaccines for
emerging viruses. NIBSC acts as an implementing partner
to produce reference material which supports these
activities. Working with CEPI and other partners will
ensure the rapid availability of biological materials
needed to contribute towards global response efforts to
COVID-19.
Clinical trials
We authorise and inspect the clinical trials of new
medicines in the UK. We are on standby to ensure that
applications relating to COVID-19 are dealt with
swiftly and we can guide you through the application
process. If you would like further guidance or advice,
we would be happy to discuss this with you at the
earliest opportunity. Please contact us by
emailing clintrialhelpline@mhra.gov.uk.
