I've recently enrolled in a study testing an experimental malaria vaccine. After a short (yet unenjoyable) screening process, I was given the first of three vaccine administrations yesterday.
The next ones are each three weeks apart, culminating in what the researchers call a "challenge" phase, wherein I will be exposed to about 200 malaria infected mosquitoes (Plasmodium vivax strain, in case you're interested) to see if the vaccine will protect me from the bugs!
Now, you might be wondering why anyone would do this (I mean, other than the money of course). But I have to ask myself: when will a middle-class suburban white male ever be exposed to malaria? Am I planning on going to any jungles in the near future? Pshhh, pleaseeee....
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity!
More details as events unfold. STAY TUNED.
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