New research project to determine COVID-19 postinfection immunity

Editor's Note

A new study led by the University of Georgia (UGA) Center for Vaccines and Immunology will determine what protection the body develops after infection with COVID-19. The researchers also will examine immunological, demographic, and medical risk factors and the part they play in recovery and outcomes.

Participants, which will include local healthcare and emergency services providers plus faculty, staff, and students at UGA, will be monitored with blood draws and saliva samples over the next 24 months.

UGA will also participate with other teams of investigators around the country, including Augusta University Medical Center, Mt Sinai Medical Center in New York City, University of Chicago, University of Miami, University of California at Los Angeles—Harbor Medical Center, Washington University Medical Center in St Louis, and St Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis.

The project, called SPARTA (SARS SeroPrevalence and Respiratory Tract Assessment), is funded by the National Institutes of Health National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the National Cancer Institute.