Researchers at East Kent Hospitals are looking for more people to help with their research into Covid-19.

The team launched a study earlier this year investigating whether Sambucol Black Elderberry liquid – a popular herbal remedy available in many health food shops – is an effective treatment for the virus.

Previous research found black elderberry fruit or extracts had antiviral properties against flu and a type of herpes.

Ms Jessica Evans, director of research and innovation at the Trust, said: “Cases of the virus have been rising again, although thankfully this has not translated into people needing hospital treatment.

“But it does give us an opportunity to recruit more people to this study which could have huge benefits for the future and our understanding of how to treat Covid-19.

“Research has been key in the fight against coronavirus and only by testing different treatments will we understand which are the most effective.”

The study is the first in the country investigating black elderberry liquid as a treatment and has been adopted by the National Institute for Health Research.

The team will be testing to see whether taking the liquid reduces the severity and length of time of symptoms.

Anyone who has tested positive for Covid-19 in the past five days could be eligible to take part. For more information contact your local research team:

QEQM Margate:

01843 234406 – ekhuft.researchteamqeqmhospital@nhs.net

KCH Canterbury:

01227 868764 – ekhuft.researchteamkch@nhs.net

WHH Ashford:

01233 616271 – ekhuft.thewilliamharveyresearchteam@nhs.net

Help research treatments into Covid-19

By Ed

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