The MDI Biological Laboratory has launched a citizen science program aimed at understanding the effectiveness of COVID-19 home test kits in detecting the SARS CoV-2 virus. Using Anecdata.org (MDIBL’s citizen science data platform) participants (18yrs+) will be asked to fill out a brief anonymous survey, providing information on symptoms, masking, which kind of test kit was used, and the test result.
Project leader, Jane Disney, Ph.D., said the project will provide practical information that will build a better understanding of community spread as SARS CoV-2 and its subvariants continue to infect people worldwide. US government guidance that requires private insurance companies to cover the costs of up to eight FDA approved over the counter COVID-19 diagnostic tests per household has lead to the majority use of these tests happening privately, and their results going largely unreported – leaving a large gap in knowledge about the transmission of the virus.
"This survey tool will help us address critical questions about the relationship between timing of exposure, whether a mask was worn, what type of mask was worn, symptoms, and results of different Covid-19 home test kits. The anonymous results are publicly available for download so that people can see what is happening in their communities.” Disney explained, "MDIBL is pleased to assist in tracing infections in this way and working on behalf of the public good.”
Chuck Dinsmore has devoted his life to curiosity, discovery and fostering a love of science in others. By making a planned estate gift, he has joined the ranks of the John S. Kingsley Society at MDI Biological Laboratory, and ensured that nurturing curiosity in learners of all ages is part of his legacy.
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