The PREVENT study is made up of several different components. Individuals can self-register to participate in the Community Testing component, however for the Ongoing Testing or Household Transmission components you must be screened and invited to participate by study staff.
How to sign up for the Community Testing component?
Step 1: Scan the QR code on the Vending Machine (VEND-A-KIT) or visit https://app.preventcohorts.org
Step 2: Select your preferred language
Step 3: Register
Step 4: Enter your name, date of birth, cell phone number & create a 4-digit pin
Step 5: Read & scroll through the consent form
Step 6: Provide consent. If you agree to participate, sign the electronic consent form.
Step 7: Fill out demographic & symptom survey
Step 8: Collect a nasal swab sample.
Step 9: Scan the barcode on your test tube & drop it off at the dropbox next to the vending machine
Step 10: Wait for your results (This can take 24 to 72 hours)
Questions? Email us at prevent@health.ucsd.edu or call us at 858-945-4553. You can learn more about the scientists behind PREVENT here.
Who Can Participate?
PREVENT is looking for diverse participants across different age groups, backgrounds, and health conditions.
What Are the Benefits of Participating?
By joining PREVENT, you:
- Receive no-cost respiratory virus testing
- Contribute to cutting-edge research that improves public health policies.
- Help scientists develop better vaccines, treatments, and prevention strategies.
- Gain insights into your own health through ongoing monitoring.
Participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be sick to join?
No. We need participants who are both healthy and those who experience symptoms, so we can compare and track infections over time.
How long does the study last?
Different components require different time commitments. For the Community Testing Component there are no commitments beyond the initial testing, for the Ongoing Testing component the study will last for 5 years and we ask you to commit to at least 2 years, however you can choose to withdraw at any time.
What happens if I move away?
If you relocate outside San Diego County, we may need to discontinue your participation. Please contact us at prevent@health.ucsd.edu or 858-945-4553 to discuss your options.
Will I receive test results?
Yes. If you test positive for COVID-19, flu, or RSV, we will notify you via the PREVENT app and/or a nurse from UCSD may call you. If you are a patient with UCSD Health or San Ysidro Health and provide your medical record number, we will send you results to your medical record as well.
Can my family participate?
Yes! We encourage households to join! Family members can sign up at the same time or at different times.