Volunteers needed for Covid-19 research

Our research study will investigate Covid-19 immunity and post-viral conditions.

Study title: Immunity and molecular studies of SARS-CoV-2 infection, post-viral conditions and Covid-19 vaccination

Researchers at the Universities of Auckland and Otago are currently looking for people to participate in an important study to investigate immune and molecular markers following recovery from Covid-19 (post-Covid condition/Long Covid) and following Covid-19 vaccination in adult volunteers.

These studies will aim to investigate immune dysregulation and long-term immunity in those with Long Covid, while also investigating the relationship of Long Covid to other post-viral conditions, for example Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS).

What's involved?

  • Fill out a short screening questionnaire to confirm eligibility.
  • We will request 50-100ml (maximum) of blood to be taken from you.
  • If you are interested, we will also ask you to provide regular samples for our studies.
  • All information collected about you during the course of the research will be kept strictly confidential. Your donation will be de-identified for use in our research projects.

Eligibility criteria

Consenting adults (16 and over) who meet one of the following criteria:

  1. Had confirmed or probable Covid-19 (pre and/or post vaccination).
  2. Have or suspect you have Long Covid (pre and/or post vaccination).
  3. Healthy controls – ie those who identify as ‘in good health’ (no history of Covid-19 or post-viral condition (pre and/or post vaccination).

You must:

  • Be free from acute infections, eg not have any cold or flu-like symptoms.
  • Have NOT had Covid-19 or been in contact with someone who has tested positive or is under investigation for Covid-19 in the last 28 days.
  • Have not been self-isolating in the last 14 days.

Exclusions:

  • Diagnosed with a terminal illness
  • Pregnant or lactating women
  • Presenting with any acute cold or flu-like symptoms.

Contact details

If you have any questions, please contact:

Dr Anna Brooks

Email: a.brooks@auckland.ac.nz

Statement of ethics approval

Approved by the Health and Disability Ethics Committee in October 2021.
Reference number: 2021 EXP 10976