Purpose The Prospective Respiratory Outcomes from Tracking and Evaluating Community-based TeSting study is a 2-year community-based, prospective cohort launched in 2024. The overall aim of the study is to better understand the burden and impact of acute and postacute COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections across the USA.
Our key objectives are to measure the incidence and symptom burden of major respiratory viruses using home testing, measure incidence and risk factors for postacute symptoms of major respiratory viruses and investigate the impact of antivirals and vaccinations on acute and postacute symptoms of respiratory viruses. Participants Enrolment began in June 2024 using internet-based strategies.
Eligible participants were adults aged ≥18 years who were US residents, English language proficient and had no known SARS-CoV-2, RSV or influenza infections in the 3 months before screening. We prioritised enrolment of individuals who were at high risk for severe SARS-CoV-2 outcomes.
After enrolment, participants were prompted to report the presence or absence of respiratory symptoms weekly.
BMJ Open published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 27 Apr 2026.
The item focuses on Prospective Respiratory Outcomes from Tracking and Evaluating Community-based TeSting (Project PROTECTS): a community-based, prospective study of acute respiratory infections among adults across the USA - cohort profile.
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