A new trial which seeks to develop a flu vaccine is recruiting adults in Southampton. 

Researchers at Southampton Research Hub are looking for people aged 50 and older for the Fluent Trial, which will test an investigational vaccine against an already approved one.

The trial aims to see if the new vaccine can prevent seasonal flu more effectively.

This is a phase three clinical trial, meaning it is the last stage before the vaccine can be made available to the public, pending approval from the UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency.

Phase three trials involve a large group of people to evaluate the vaccine's effectiveness.

Everyone in the trial will receive a flu vaccine, either the investigational vaccine or a separate, already-approved vaccine.

Participants who do not qualify for an NHS flu vaccine may still be eligible for the trial.

To take part, individuals must be at least 50 years old, in good health, and have not had seasonal flu in the last six months.

The clinical trial team will provide support to all participants, ensuring they understand the trial's details before they agree to take part.

This process, known as informed consent, covers what the trial involves and any associated risks.

Moderna, the company behind the investigational vaccine and the Fluent Trial programme, will compensate participants for their time and any expenses related to the trial, such as travel.

Dr Patrick Moore, co-director of Wessex Research Hubs, said: "Research into potential vaccines that may protect older people against seasonal flu is important.

"If effective, these vaccines offer one of the most successful ways we can both lower the risk of serious flu-related illness and help reduce the pressure on health and social care services during the winter."