Infectious Disease Clinical Trials Update: Week 18, 2026

Published May 1, 2026 — 5 trials covered

By Victor Lafforgue, Founder of TrialsAlert. Blog posts are AI-drafted from ClinicalTrials.gov source data and reviewed by the editorial team. See our editorial policy for details.

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Study of Lenacapavir and Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide in Adolescent Girls and Young Women at Risk of HIV Infection

This Phase 3 trial evaluated new oral and injectable options to prevent HIV infection in adolescent girls and young women who are at risk. The study, conducted across several countries including South Africa and Uganda, offers hope for more convenient and effective prevention methods. Results are already available and may help reduce new HIV infections in this vulnerable group.

Randomised Evaluation of COVID-19 Therapy

This ongoing Phase 3 trial is investigating multiple treatment options for pneumonia caused by COVID-19 and other infections in hospitalized patients. Recruiting in 16 countries, it aims to find better therapies that can lower death rates and help patients recover faster. The study’s findings could influence how pneumonia is treated worldwide.

The Immunology and Safety of Maternal RSV Vaccination (ABRYSVO), Infant Nirsevimab (BEYFORTUS) Immunization, or Both Products

This Phase 4 study is testing two new preventive treatments against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in infants. One is a vaccine given to pregnant women and the other an antibody given to newborns. If effective, this approach could provide broader protection against RSV, a common and serious respiratory illness in young children, with infants followed through their first year of life in the United States.

Improving Care Through Azithromycin Research for Infants in Africa

This Phase 3 trial is testing azithromycin combined with preventive malaria treatment in infants and young children in Sierra Leone. The goal is to reduce child mortality from infectious diseases like malaria and pneumonia. Results from this study, which is active but not recruiting, could inform child health programs in high-risk regions and help save young lives.

Shortened Regimen for Drug-susceptible TB in Children

This Phase 3 trial is evaluating a shorter, two-month drug regimen for children under ten with drug-susceptible tuberculosis. Shorter treatment could mean fewer side effects and less burden for both children and caregivers. Recruiting in several countries including India and South Africa, the study’s results are expected after 48 weeks and could improve TB care for young patients.

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