CompletedObservational

COVID-19 in care homes (VIVALDI)

The VIVALDI study is an important UK research project looking at COVID-19 in care homes across England. Older people living in care homes face a higher risk of becoming very unwell from the virus. This study tracks thousands of care home residents and staff to understand how the infection spreads and how long natural protection or vaccine immunity lasts. Participants provide throat and nose swabs to check for current infections, as well as blood tests to see if they have had the virus before. Some may also test using saliva samples. Researchers also look at safety measures used within each home to see which ones work best. The findings help care homes improve their infection control, keeping residents and staff safer while giving scientists valuable data on vaccine effectiveness.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

University College London

Enrolment target

11,000

Start

03 Jun 2020

Estimated completion

31 Mar 2023

COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2 infection)

What is this study about?

COVID-19 is a chest infection caused by a coronavirus. While some people experience only mild symptoms or none at all, it can make others very unwell, leading to serious breathing difficulties and hospital stays. People living in care homes are particularly vulnerable because the virus can pass easily between people living and working in close contact.

The VIVALDI study was set up by researchers at University College London to answer vital questions about the virus in care homes across England. Scientists want to know how many staff and residents have had COVID-19, whether past infection protects against catching it again, and how well COVID-19 vaccines work over time in older people.

By following thousands of residents and staff over several months, the research team hopes to find the most effective ways to stop outbreaks before they start. The results give each care home practical feedback on how to improve safety, helping to protect both the people who live there and the dedicated staff who care for them.

Key takeaways

The VIVALDI study investigates COVID-19 spread and immunity in English care homes.
It involves staff and residents aged 65 and over in participating homes.
Participants provide swabs, blood samples, and sometimes saliva over 6 to 12 months.
No new medicines or experimental drugs are being tested.
Findings help care homes improve safety and infection control measures.

Who may be eligible?

This study is designed specifically for people living and working in selected care homes across England. It includes care home staff of any working age and care home residents aged 65 and over.

Members of the general public cannot volunteer directly for this study. Instead, researchers work directly with chosen care homes, and everyone living or working in those specific homes is invited to take part.

There are no strict medical exclusions, but taking part is entirely voluntary. Residents and staff can choose whether or not they want to join without it affecting their normal care or employment.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

You are a resident aged 65 or older in a participating care home
You are a staff member working in a participating care home
The care home is located in England
Your care home has been selected to join the VIVALDI study
You are willing to provide swab and blood samples

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Taking part involves regular health checks done directly inside the care home over a period of 6 to 12 months. Participants have standard nose and throat swabs to check if they currently have the virus, and simple blood tests to look for antibodies (signs of past infection or vaccination). Some people may also be asked to provide spit (saliva) samples to see if saliva tests work as well as swabs.

There are no new medicines or experimental treatments to take. The study team also monitors health records—such as hospital visits and vaccination records—for up to two years after the tests finish to see how people get on over time. The entire study runs over several years to build a complete picture of long-term immunity.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part gives you regular testing for COVID-19 and informs you whether you have antibodies, though having antibodies does not guarantee complete protection. Your care home also gets valuable information to help make the environment safer for everyone. The main risks are mild physical discomfort. Throat swabs can feel unpleasant and cause brief gagging, while blood tests can cause brief pain or minor bruising. Trained healthcare workers carry out all tests to keep you as comfortable as possible. You are free to stop participating at any time without giving a reason, and your regular care will never be affected.

Locations (2)

University College London
Approximate
London, England
Four Seasons Health Care
City only
Wilmslow, England

Common questions

Can I sign up for this trial online?

No, this study is only open to staff and residents living or working in specific participating care homes in England.

Does this trial involve testing a new drug?

No. The study only observes how the virus spreads and how well vaccines work using routine swabs and blood samples.

Will having antibodies mean I cannot catch COVID-19 again?

Not necessarily. Antibody tests show that your body has seen the virus or vaccine before, but doctors are still studying how long that protection lasts.

What happens if a swab or blood test is uncomfortable?

Experienced healthcare staff perform all tests gently. If you find a test too distressing, you can pause or stop at any moment.

Can I change my mind after agreeing to join?

Yes. Taking part is completely voluntary, and you can withdraw at any point without it affecting your day-to-day care or work.

How to find out more

Maria Krutikov

m.krutikov@ucl.ac.uk - Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.