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EFPIA statement on the tragic clinical trial events in France

EFPIA would like to express its sincerest sympathy with the individuals affected by the tragic incidents arising from the clinical trial conducted in Rennes, France, as well as with their families.

While we are unable to comment on the trial itself, we would like to underscore that severe adverse reactions among healthy volunteers are extremely rare. There are currently 8,000 trials ongoing around Europe, at different stages of the research process, and each is subject to rigorous, independent ethical and scientific approval.

Rather than speculate as to why this tragic incident has happened, it is vital that we now seek to identify precisely the reasons behind its occurrence. It is furthermore essential that we learn from this experience and apply any knowledge accrued to any future clinical trials.