Participating in a clinical trial can be exciting, but it’s important to know exactly what to expect during the process. While you’re part of a clinical trial, FluCamp provides access to important facilities that ensure that you’re able to feel comfortable and remain occupied during your stay.
Whether you plan to continue working, studying, or simply want time alone, you will have access to a range of amenities that help make your time both productive and enjoyable. This article outlines what you can expect while taking part in a clinical trial, from the quarantine process to what to bring with you.

What happens during quarantine?

Once you have completed the screening process and received confirmation of your place in a clinical trial at FluCamp, you will enter a quarantine period. This is an essential part of the trial, designed to ensure participant safety and to allow for consistent monitoring in a controlled environment.

During quarantine, you will be inoculated. FluCamp uses a randomised inoculation process, which means you may receive either a live virus or a placebo. This is assigned at random and you won’t know which you have received.

Throughout your stay, you will be confined to a private room and asked to undergo a series of routine medical tests. These may include blood tests, blood pressure checks, and nasal swabs. These procedures are vital for collecting data on how the treatment affects the body and helps researchers better understand the potential benefits and risks.

Following the quarantine period, you’ll be able to leave FluCamp’s London facilities, but you still need to come back for follow-ups. During these follow-ups, additional medical tests may be conducted to get a better idea about the potential longer-term effects of the treatments. These follow-ups are also important to ensure that the staff at FluCamp can  monitor your health. 

Remote working and clinical trials

All clinical trials at FluCamp require participants to remain in quarantine in a private room for the duration of the study. This is to ensure that all data is collected under consistent and controlled conditions. The length of your stay will depend on the specific trial, ranging from a few days to several weeks.

Each room is equipped with a desk, and Wi-Fi is available throughout the facility. This means that, in many cases, you can continue to work remotely while taking part in a clinical trial. However, you will need to be available for medical tests and procedures at scheduled times during your stay.

It is also important to be aware that some people experience side effects from the clinical trials. If you feel ill during the clinical trial, you may find that these side effects have an impact on your ability to continue working, so it is helpful to take this into account when planning your workload.

Studying and clinical trials

At FluCamp, many of our participants are students, some of whom continue their studies while participating in a clinical trial.

With a desk in every room and reliable Wi-Fi, you will have access to your course materials and can attend online lectures or complete assignments as needed. Because meals are provided and each room includes an ensuite bathroom, you may also find that you have more time and fewer daily responsibilities to manage.

That said, it is important to consider the possibility of side effects from the treatment. These may affect your energy levels or focus. If you plan to study during your stay, try to schedule your workload with some flexibility, and be sure to attend any required medical tests during the trial.

FluCamp’s facilities

FluCamp has a wide range of amenities that are made available to all participants. Every participant stays in a private room equipped to support both relaxation and day-to-day activities during the quarantine period. Each room includes an ensuite bathroom, providing added privacy and convenience.

For entertainment, all rooms come with a smart TV and a PlayStation 5, with a selection of the latest games available to play. You’ll also find a desk and reliable Wi-Fi, making it easy to work, study, or simply browse the internet during your stay. Cooked meals are provided throughout the day, so you don’t need to worry about meal preparation.

In addition to the amenities provided, participants are welcome to bring personal items to help pass the time. Having familiar belongings can make the experience more enjoyable and help reduce any feelings of isolation while in quarantine.

What to bring to a clinical trial

Many participants find that the room’s facilities meet all of their needs during the trial. However, you may wish to bring a few extra items to help you feel more at home and make the most of your time in quarantine.

Common items include a smartphone, laptop, chargers, and comfortable clothing. Some people also bring books, hobby supplies, or even musical instruments. If you enjoy reading, a good book or e-reader can be an excellent way to relax.

As you’ll be in your room for the duration of the trial, it’s helpful to pack things that will keep you occupied. You’ll be informed in advance how long your stay is expected to last, which can guide you on what to bring.

The key is to ensure you feel comfortable, relaxed, and able to enjoy your time at FluCamp while taking part in the clinical trial.

What next?

While taking part in a clinical trial at FluCamp, you are free to spend your time as you choose, provided you attend all required medical tests and follow the guidelines of the study. In addition to the comfortable facilities and amenities provided, you are welcome to bring personal items to help you relax and stay occupied during your stay.

With access to Wi-Fi, participants often continue to work remotely or keep up with their studies. Whether you plan to work, study, or simply take the time to unwind, the environment at FluCamp is designed to support a safe and comfortable experience.

If you have any questions about taking part in a clinical trial at FluCamp or would like to learn more about upcoming studies, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to provide the information you need and guide you through the next steps.

References

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6547231/ 

I had a fantastic experience during my two-week stay at FluCamp. The staff were incredibly friendly, always to happy to answer my questions and kept me well-informed throughout the trial. Their professionalism and warmth made the stay comfortable and stress-free. The catering was excellent, with a great variety of tasty meals that exceeded my expectations. My room was comfortable. Overall, I felt well cared for, and I would highly recommend FluCamp to anyone considering taking part in any future trials.

FluCamp Volunteer

Honestly, I loved all of my quarantine experience, it felt like an escape at times. The view was amazing, staff were very friendly and helpful and the food was hearty. Would absolutely recommend and personally I would definitely do it again!

FluCamp Volunteer

Having participated in perhaps eight or nine trials over the last decade in a variety of facilities and with different companies, I have to say my experience at FluCamp in Canary Wharf was easily the most comfortable I have experienced.

FluCamp Volunteer