Monitoring air for respiratory viruses in schools
Anticipating and rapidly responding to respiratory virus outbreaks with continuous air sampling in K-12 schools
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-10997394
This study is looking at a way to check for respiratory viruses like COVID-19 and the flu in the air of K-12 schools, so we can find out when the risk of spreading these viruses is higher and help keep students safe and healthy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10997394 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates a method for detecting respiratory viruses, specifically SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, in the air of K-12 schools. By placing air samplers in 16 schools, researchers will collect air samples twice a week throughout the school year. The goal is to determine if air sampling can effectively identify high-risk periods for virus transmission, potentially offering a simpler and more cost-effective surveillance strategy compared to individual testing. This approach aims to enhance safety and reduce absenteeism caused by respiratory illnesses in school settings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years attending K-12 schools.
Not a fit: Patients who are not in the K-12 age range or those not attending participating schools may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved monitoring of respiratory viruses in schools, helping to keep children safe and reduce illness-related absenteeism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using air sampling for pathogen detection, suggesting that this approach could be effective in school settings.
Where this research is happening
MADISON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON — MADISON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'CONNOR, DAVID H. — UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- Study coordinator: O'CONNOR, DAVID H.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.