Help us get closer to a world without Hepatitis C.
We’re studying a vaccine that could protect long-term against Hepatitis C infection. Take part in our clinical trial to make sure this vaccine is safe and effective.
Join a vaccine study that can help prevent Hepatitis C.
Hepatitis C is a virus that spreads through blood and affects the liver. About 58 million people around the world have Hepatitis C. Over 250,000 are in Canada. Each year, 1 million new cases are reported. The virus disproportionately affects marginalized populations, and among are those many First Nations people whose rates of new HCV diagnoses are more than double the national average.
Some patients don’t know how they contracted Hepatitis C because the virus can spread in many ways. If left untreated, the virus can cause liver disease, liver cancer, or even death. It can also feel isolating. Many people don’t understand Hepatitis C. As a result, patients often don’t get the care and compassion they need. We aim to change that.
A Hepatitis C vaccine can be life-changing for everyone.
The World Health Organization aims to eliminate Hepatitis C by 2030. A preventive vaccine is an important next step.
While new treatments can cure over 90% of patients, these don’t stop reinfection. Even people who have been cured can get infected again.
We’re in Phase 1 clinical trials for a vaccine that could provide strong, long-lasting protection against Hepatitis C. Our study team is recruiting healthy adults aged 18 to 45. Participants will receive 3 doses of the new vaccine to ensure it’s safe and effective. Volunteers will be compensated for their time.
Please fill out the application form to see if you’re eligible to take part. Let’s work together to prevent Hepatitis C for everyone, today and for future generations.
Taking part in this study means:
Making 7 visits to our facility at the University of Alberta Hospital
Having blood, urine and saliva (where applicable) collected at each visit
Receiving 3 injected doses of the vaccine
Agreeing to be a part of the study for a 13-month period
Receiving compensation for each visit
Find out if you’re eligible.
Answer our pre-screening survey to see if you can take part in the study.
Read our privacy policy to learn how we use and store the data we collect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I test positive for hepatitis C if I get the vaccine?
No, you won’t get a positive test for Hepatitis C antibodies if you receive the vaccine. This study uses an adjuvanted peptide vaccine that doesn’t contain the active virus. The lab tests used to diagnose Hepatitis C detect a protein that isn’t found in the study vaccine.
Is this vaccine safe for me?
The vaccine we’re testing is based on another vaccine that already proved safe and effective in human trials. There is no evidence that the vaccine causes harm, and we will carefully monitor your safety throughout the study.
Can I join the study if I’m pregnant?
No, we are not currently accepting trial participants who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study period.