Misplaced your paper kit materials or just want more information? 

We've got you covered! 

Sample Collection Kit Instructions

Description: a digital version of our study collection kit instructions sent with your kit
View here: Collection Kit Instructions

Sample Collection Kit Contents

Description: a digital version of our kit contents sent with your kit
View here: Collection Kit Contents

Tasso+ Device Instructions

Description: a digital version of Tasso+ kit (blood collection device) instructions created by Tasso+, Inc
View here: Tasso Kit Instructions

Tasso+ Device Instructional Video

Description: an instructional video on how to use the Tasso+ device created by Tasso+, Inc
View here: Tasso Instructional Video

Biospecimen Survey

Description: a digital copy of our biospecimen survey sent with your kit
View here: Biospecimen Survey

General

Q: Am I eligible for kit collection?

A: Our biospecimen sample collection process is dynamic. This means we aim to collect samples from participants meeting certain criteria at specific points in time. We routinely review eligibility and reach out via phone or email as soon as the criteria are met. If you are interested in learning more about biospecimen sample collection. Feel free to contact us! 

Q: Will I receive a follow-up about my results from the study?

A: Yes! We are working diligently to share as many results with you as possible. These could include your COVID-19 antibody presence, gut microbiome, or other related findings, depending on the answers selected while completing your consent form, initial survey, and biospecimen survey. We do want to mention that due to the nature of our analyses and the need for rigorous quality control, results may not be available simultaneously, and more extensive analyses may require an extended period for processing and interpretation.

Q: When can I expect results?

A: Great question! We wish we had a concrete time frame to give you, but because we are still in the early stages of this study and are using cutting-edge technology to analyze the biospecimen samples, we just don’t have that information at this time. 

Kit Turnaround Time

Q: How quickly do you want the kit back?

A: Great question! While we don’t have a specific turnaround time, if you are able to collect your samples and return your kit within 3 weeks, that would be ideal. 

If you need more time to complete your kit, that’s totally fine! But if you would be able to send us an email or call us to let us know to expect your kit a little later, we would greatly appreciate the update. We will send follow-up reminder emails at 3 weeks to check in unless we receive your kit or hear from you in the meantime. 

Partial Samples

Q: I am only willing to provide a stool sample and do not wish to collect blood. Can I still participate?

A: Yes! Your participation and contribution to our study will still be very helpful. 

Q: I am only willing to provide a stool sample and do not wish to collect blood by myself. Can I still participate?

A:  At the moment, we may not be able to arrange for a blood draw collection. Your participation and contribution to our study will still be greatly appreciated if you are willing to collect the stool sample only. 

Q: I am only willing to provide a blood sample. Can I still participate?

A: Unfortunately, we would need stool samples to conduct certain analyses and link results from the blood sample results back to specific gut microbiome compositions. A member of our team will be happy to provide more information about this process if you'd like and we also completely understand if you choose not to participate for this reason. Participation in our study extends beyond biospecimen collection. Your participation in additional survey collection would still greatly contribute to our research and we would be delighted to have you involved in this capacity. 

Shipping in the Heat

Q: If I can’t check my mailbox immediately, is it okay for the kit to sit in the heat for a bit?

A: Yes. The kits we send to you are designed to withstand high temperatures prior to the sample collection process.

Please note that after you collect your samples, temperature control becomes important. 

The kit includes specific instructions to keep samples stable and we request that they be returned to FedEx within 24 hours of blood sample collection.

Partial or Incomplete Blood Samples 

Q: I collected blood from one arm, or my blood samples were partial. What should I do?

A: Please go ahead and send us the samples you have. In many cases, the amount collected is sufficient for our analysis. Our team will review the samples to ensure they meet the necessary requirements. If we need a little more, we’ll reach out to you directly. Thank you for helping us maintain the accuracy and reliability of our research.

Vaccine and Biospecimen Collection 

Q: Does getting the new COVID-19 vaccine/booster change the timing of biospecimen sampling ?

A: No, getting the new vaccine won't change the sampling schedule for our study. We’ve planned our study to accommodate vaccinated participants, so there's no need to worry about timing changes. You can get vaccinated without affecting your participation or the study results.

Antibiotic Use and Biospecimen Collection 

Q: Will taking antibiotics affect my eligibility or timing of biospecimen collection?

A: Yes. Because antibiotics can temporarily affect the gut microbiome, we ask participants to postpone sample collection until antibiotics have cleared their system.

• For standard antibiotic courses, please wait at least 2 weeks after your last dose.
• For higher-dose or extended regimens, please wait 3 weeks after your last dose before collecting your samples.

Compensation

Q: I am waiting for my study compensation. Why haven’t I received it yet?

A: We send gift cards in batches. Once our team receives your completed samples,  you will be added to the next batch. Gift cards will be sent via a separate email as a token of our appreciation. If you do not receive yours within a month of returning your samples, please contact us.