Carilion Clinic and the Virginia Department of Health Partner on New Seroprevalence Study
While previous seroprevalence studies have been done statewide, this is the first dedicated to Southwest Virginia. Study participants needed.
The Virginia Department of Health has awarded Carilion Clinic $566,309 in CARES Act funding to conduct a COVID-19 Seroprevalence Study to better understand the number of people who have COVID-19 in Southwest Virginia. The study's findings will also provide a better understanding of potential high-risk activities and their contribution to the spread of the virus in the region.
"Since the pandemic began in early March, we have learned a tremendous amount about COVID-19," said Paul Skolnik, M.D., chair of Carilion's Department of Medicine. "This study will allow us to determine the direct effect of the virus in our area."
The study will measure SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in individuals living in 22 localities in Carilion's service region. The survey follows a summertime seroprevalence study led by the Commonwealth of Virginia, which Carilion participated in. This project, however, is the first dedicated seroprevalence study in Southwest Virginia.
The public may enroll in the study by taking this quick survey or using the QR code included at the top of this release. Note that there are a limited number of spots, so participants will be reviewed and granted access on a first-come, first-served basis.
"In additional to public enrollment, we're recruiting participants from Carilion Clinic electronic medical records and the general public with the help of Virginia Tech's Department of Population Health," said Anthony Baffoe-Bonnie, M.D., director of Carilion's Infection Prevention and Control. "Potential participants will take a 10-minute survey and consent to have 5 milliliters of blood drawn. There is no cost to our participants or their insurance."
State funding from the CARES Act will fund 5,250 tests through Dec. 31, 2020. Blood draws will take place at Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers or Carilion hospital locations.
For questions, email research@carilionclinic.org.