SECOVIT Project

The SECOVIT project investigates the role of certain components of the patient´s immune system (HLA molecules) and other concomitant respiratory viral infections (co-infections) in the evolution of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The data obtained in this study will contribute to gain a better understanding of the viral infection in order to optimise medical interventions, health policies and design of vaccines. This project is a collaboration between the Institute of Virology at the University of Cologne (for laboratory experiments) and the University of Duisburg-Essen (for mathematical analysis). This work is financed by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).

For this project, we will analyse samples that have already been diagnosed as positive for coronavirus infection at the University of Cologne.

• We do not need any additional sample or any health test, so you do not have to come to the clinic again.

• You do not have to fill any questionnaire.

• You do not need to take any medication and you will not be vaccinated.

• You do not have to worry about your personal data. The study is run confidentially. Every patient obtains a random numeric code (pseudonym) that is then used for the laboratory testing and the mathematical analysis.

• You must provide your written consent allowing us to use your diagnostic sample for these scientific purposes. We will provide you with all the detailed project information and the consent form. You may also download them here. Please sign the consent form and send it back to us as photo per email (saleta.sierra-aragon@uk-koeln.de) or per mail.

Your can help in the fight against the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Please participate in the SECOVIT Study!

If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact us.