The Infectious Disease Research Unit at Mount Sinai is looking for people to participate in a research study to help understand the new H1N1 influenza virus.

The study is investigating whether getting the seasonal influenza vaccine affects how likely people are to become ill with H1N1. People taking part in the study will also be enrolled in the Influenza Cohort study that is investigating whether health-care workers are more likely to become ill with H1N1 and miss work than workers in other fields.

The study, which has been underway since October 2009, will continue until the end of the influenza season. Researchers are looking for another 100 participants for the study. Remuneration will be provided.
 

Who can participate?

• Anyone 18-60 years of age who has internet access

    
What is required?

• You will be randomized to receive either the regular 2009 seasonal influenza vaccine or a placebo injection of sterile normal saline (salt) solution
• 1 to 2 appointments
• If you develop an influenza-like illness or experience respiratory symptoms:
  • have a nasal swab taken and mail it back;
  • complete a daily diary until you are feeling better.
      

Contact

If you are interested in participating in the study, please contact The Infectious Disease Research Unit at 416-586-4800 ext. H1N1 (4161), or by email at IDresearch@mtsinai.on.ca.