ISARIC (360G-Wellcome-215091_Z_18_Z)

The International Severe Acute Respiratory and emerging Infections Consortium (ISARIC) is a federation of clinical research networks whose aim is to prevent illness and deaths from infectious diseases outbreaks. This aim is supported by two key objectives: (i) To generate and disseminate clinical research evidence for outbreak-prone infectious diseases, whenever and wherever they occur; (ii) A global federation of clinical research networks, providing a proficient, coordinated, and agile research response to outbreak-prone infectious diseases. The first objective will be achieved by implementing collaborative, multi-member, inter-epidemic research projects on severe acute respiratory infections, Lassa fever, and plague; and ‘pre-positioning’ clinical trial protocols for MERS-CoV and Nipah virus. In addition, the ISARIC Global Support Centre and the ISARIC membership will provide technical and operational support to other ISARIC members and stakeholders wishing to conduct research in preparation for or in response to outbreaks. The second objective will be achieved both through the process of developing and implementing collaborative clinical studies and through a programme of membership engagement and capacity development activities that includes scientific seminars, fellowships, and training in clinical research methods. To ensure ISARIC is a truly global asset, the programme will be implemented in close partnership with WHO and others.