Group A Strep Header Image.png

A poke…
that pays back.

We’re studying a new vaccine to prevent harmful diseases caused by the Group A Streptococcus bacteria.

We have now completed recruitment for this study and are no longer seeking participants. 

 
 

We’re studying ways to prevent harmful diseases caused by Group A Strep. 

 

You may know strep as the bacteria that causes strep throat. But did you know it also causes severe, life-threatening diseases such as rheumatic fever, necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating disease) and toxic shock? Children and marginalized populations are disproportionately impacted by infections from Group A Strep. 

 

A vaccine for Group A Strep could be life-saving for many.

A vaccine for Group A Strep could be life-saving for many, which is why we’re conducting this study.

The burden of this illness in Alberta is substantial and is greater in First Nations compared to non-First Nations. First Nations comprised 3.4% of the population in Alberta in 20161, but were disproportionately represented among persons dying of Strep A. A 2017 study found that the incidence rate for Group A Strep among the Alberta First Nations population was 6 times greater than that for non–First Nations populations2.

 
 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Is this vaccine an adenovirus vaccine?

A: No. This study uses an adjuvanted conjugated peptide vaccine. The vaccine contains synthetic peptides (similar to small proteins) mixed with Alum (referred to as an adjuvant) to help generate antibodies for a Group A Strep infection. The study vaccine contains no active virus.


Q: Will this vaccine interfere with receiving my COVID-19 vaccine?

A: Vaccination injections for this study will be given 2 weeks apart from any COVID-19 vaccinations.


Q: Is this vaccine safe for me?

A: A prototype vaccine was previously tested on a small group of volunteers in a pilot study in Australia. No adverse events were recorded during that study. The trial team will review any and all risks in more detail with you if you're eligible to participate.