Why was I selected?
You were randomly selected (like drawing numbers from a hat) because you live in or near Marshfield, Wisconsin. Residents living in the following zip codes are eligible: 54405, 54410, 54412, 54415, 54420, 54421, 54425, 54441, 54449, 54454, 54466, 54479, 54484 and 54488.

Why should I join?
COVID-19 is a new disease. There are still many unanswered questions. With your help, we will learn more about COVID-19 in all ages.

Can I volunteer if I did not get an invitation letter?
Residents of the Marshfield area can volunteer for the study by signing up here. When you sign up, research staff will contact you if you are eligible. Volunteers will be invited based on current needs of the study.

Can I volunteer if I don’t have COVID-19?
Yes, you can participate in this study whether you have COVID-19 or not.  

Is my participation voluntary?
Yes. You should agree to be in the study without feeling pressured. You can decide not to be in the study at any time and that decision will be respected.

Will it hurt when I collect the sample from my nose?
You will collect a sample from inside the front of your nose. We will teach you how to collect the sample. The process is painless and only takes a few minutes. The nose sample we are asking you to collect is different from the sample you would provide if you went to your doctor for a COVID-19 or influenza test. Your doctor will collect a sample from the back of your nose. We want you to collect a sample from inside the front of your nose.   

What is the Health System doing to make sure I am safe when I come for my study visits?
Marshfield Clinic Health System puts your safety, health and well-being at the forefront of every decision during the COVID-19 pandemic. To learn more about the steps we are taking to keep you safe, click on the link below. 

Learn more about these steps >

What should I do if I feel sick?
If you have a fever, cough, or other symptoms, you might have COVID-19. You may be asked to take a nose sample for this study. If you are concerned about your symptoms, health, or exposure, please contact your health care provider.

What should I do if I have COVID-19?
Anyone who has COVID-19 can spread it to others, even if they do not have symptoms. Learn more about how you can protect yourself and others here.

What should I do while I wait for my test results?

Health System testing for COVID-19 is prioritized over research testing. Therefore, results from this study may be delayed. If you are concerned about your symptoms, health, or exposure, please contact your health care provider. Click below to learn more about how you can protect yourself and others while waiting for your test results.

Learn more about these steps >

Are there any potential benefits to participating?

If you provide a nose sample and it is tested for COVID-19 or influenza, you will get the results of that test. Information from this study will help efforts to prevent further spread of COVID-19 in rural areas.

Will I get paid to be in the study?
You will receive payment for your time to complete specific study activities. Participants may receive between $358 and $644 for completion of the study.

Who is paying for this study?
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).