Screening Healthy Volunteers for Influenza Challenge Studies

Image of influenza virus particles

Colorized transmission electron micrograph of a cross-section of SW31 (swine strain) influenza virus particles (orange) found near the surface of an infected MDCK cell (green).

Credit: NIAID

If you are healthy, have some time, and have an interest in helping researchers make discoveries about influenza (the flu), we need you for a screening study. The screening is used to determine eligibility for future studies that will help researchers learn more about the development and course of the flu virus.

Who can participate?

You may be eligible for screening if you are:

  • 18–55 years old
  • A non-smoker or non-habitual smoker
  • Interested in participating in future studies

What does the study involve?

Participants will be asked to make one visit to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, for a blood draw, medical history, and physical exam. If eligible for and interested in future studies, the participant will return to NIH and may need to stay in the inpatient unit.

Where is the study taking place?

The screening and studies are being conducted at the Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center (Building 10) on the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland. The NIH campus is accessible by car and public transportation.

How much does it cost?

There is no charge to participate in the screening and studies. All screening and study-related medical care and procedures are provided free of charge.

Will I receive payment?

Yes, you will be compensated for your participation in the screening, and additional compensation will be provided if you participate in future studies. Transportation and other expenses may also be covered.

How do I find out more or volunteer?

To learn more about this screening study for the LID Clinical Studies Unit Healthy Volunteer Protocols, please

Contact Information

For questions about participating in this clinical study, contact Office of Patient Recruitment Toll Free: 1-800-411-1222 TTY: 1-866-411-1010 Se habla español. Email: prpl@mail.cc.nih.gov

Participating in Research

Watch a series of short informational videos about participating in clinical trials. These videos are intended to help potential participants understand how research works, what questions they should consider asking, and things to think about when deciding whether or not to participate in a study.

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