Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I volunteer to participate in the study?
Unfortunately this is not possible. Participation in the study requires that you are explicitly asked by us to participate by mail. This ensures the selection of a representative population sample.

What are the benefits of participating in the study?
As a participant, the study team will test you twice for past or current infection with SARS-CoV-2 using throat swabs and antibody tests. You will then receive prompt notification of the results via mail. If you test positive for a current SARS-CoV2 infection, we will contact you immediately by telephone.

By participating, you will make a valuable contribution to the understanding and control of SARS-CoV-2. Your participation will help to better understand the development and spread of COVID-19, to identify the risk groups in the population and to better predict the potential health consequences.

Furthermore, the intention is to provide even better recommendations for action to overcome the current and possible future pandemics.

Where are the examinations conducted?
The specially established study center is located in the city center of Mainz. You can find further information here.

When do I receive my test results as a study participant?
The results of the PCR-test of the throat swab as well as the blood test for antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 will be sent by mail within 1-2 weeks after your examination at the study center. In case of a positive test for the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the throat swab, the study team will inform you by telephone as soon as the test result is available.

Does study participation still make sense if I have already been vaccinated?
Yes, because many questions related to vaccination have not yet been clarified, e.g. whether vaccinated persons can still transmit the infection. Furthermore, several objectives of the study are independent of the vaccination, such as the investigation of long-term effects if you were already infected before the vaccination.