Stop the Spread Ottawa (SSO) is a large cohort study on SARS-CoV-2 immune response, led by The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and the University of Ottawa. Participants may donate monthly blood and saliva samples by self-collecting at home, and/or attend TOH Laboratory Services for blood draws. Participants are given access to an antibody portal through which they can track positive/negative SARS-CoV-2 antibody results. 

Since October 2020, the OHRI research lab has analyzed tens of thousands of samples. This volume of data has made many projects possible, such as: 

• Using machine-learning algorithms to plot duration of immunity from COVID-19 infection/vaccination 
• Comparing antibody trends in different groups (e.g. at-risk workers, immunocompromised, past COVID-19 infection) 
• Evaluating protection from COVID-19 Variants of Concern 
• Creating predictive models for long-term COVID-19 symptoms 

The SSO study currently needs 125 more participants to complete recruitment. You are eligible if you meet one or more of the following criteria:  

1. Confirmed/suspect history of COVID-19 infection  
2. Planning to, or have received, a COVID-19 vaccine  
3. Immunocompromised  

Paramedics who wish to participate will need to attend at least one session in Ottawa. You are welcome to learn more about SSO and enroll online here: https://omc.ohri.ca/SSO   

If you have any questions regarding eligibility, requirements of participation, etc. please contact the research coordinator, Erin Collins, at ecollins@ohri.ca.