Understanding how school environments affect respiratory viruses in children
Molecular epidemiology of respiratory virus exposure in elementary schools
This study is looking at how things in schools might affect kids' chances of catching respiratory viruses, like those that can trigger asthma, and it will test if using special air cleaners can help keep the air healthier for students.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10783808 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the school environment contributes to children's exposure to respiratory viruses, particularly focusing on factors that can be modified to improve health outcomes. The study aims to identify specific elements within elementary schools that lead to increased respiratory virus exposure and to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, such as portable HEPA air cleaners, in reducing this exposure. By analyzing the respiratory virome in schools compared to homes, the research seeks to establish a link between virus exposure and asthma symptoms in children. The ultimate goal is to create healthier indoor environments for students.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who attend elementary schools and may be experiencing asthma or respiratory issues.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or do not have respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved asthma management and reduced respiratory illnesses among children in school settings.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success in using environmental interventions to reduce respiratory illnesses in children, indicating that this approach has potential.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lai, Peggy Sue — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Lai, Peggy Sue
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.