Donate samples to help researchers understand viral infections

Recruiting

What is this trial?

Researchers want to understand how viruses like herpes and COVID-19 behave in different people's bodies — especially how they evolve, mutate, and sometimes become resistant to antiviral treatments. By collecting samples and information from people with viral infections or who have been exposed to them, scientists can study these viruses more closely and learn how to better prevent and treat future viral outbreaks.

Viruses behave differently depending on whether a person's immune system is strong or weakened. In immunocompromised people, viruses can change more rapidly and develop resistance to medications. This study exists to fill gaps in our knowledge about how viruses naturally evolve and develop resistance, so doctors and scientists can better predict and prevent future epidemics and develop better treatments.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have a viral infection (or suspect you might) that researchers are interested in studying
you have been in close contact with someone who has or may have a viral infection
you have recently recovered from a viral infection like COVID-19
you are healthy and willing to serve as a comparison group
you are at least 2 years old (older children and adults can be seen at the clinic; younger children can participate remotely)

You likely don't qualify if…

you are unable to safely give samples or complete the study procedures
you are unwilling to have your samples collected and stored for future research
you are a healthy control participant and are under 18 years old
you are pregnant and serving as a healthy control
you have a condition that affects your ability to make medical decisions and you are in the healthy control group

What participation looks like

Depending on which group you join, you may donate blood samples, nasal or throat swabs, or other samples over several visits. You will answer questions about your health history and symptoms, and the study team may review your medical records or past lab work. Some participants may have their immune responses tested through blood work, and samples may be stored for future research to help scientists understand viral evolution better.

Understanding How Viruses Evolve in the Body

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)