Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Accept all cookies Reject all non-essential cookies

Patient & Public Engagement

Welcome.

This page is dedicated to providing the patients of our network practices, and the public, with information about how and why our network functions and how it impacts you.

What is virology and serology sampling?

Virology sampling is the act of taking a nose and throat swab from any patient suspected of having an acute respiratory infection. The intent is to find out what virus, if any, the patient is suffering from.

Serology sampling is the act of taking a blood  sample from any patient presenting for a pre-arranged blood test. 

Patients are invited to provide samples in these situations but are not required to.

What can I expect from participating in the network virology and/or serology project?

From the virology swab, as well as kindly providing data to our research into the circulation of respiratory viruses, the patient can expect to receive either a negative result, or a result for one of the following:

  • SARS-CoV-2

  • Influenza A and B 

  • RSV A and B 

  • hMPV 

  • Adenovirus 

From the serology sample, there is no result to be given but the sample will contribute to research into vaccine effectiveness and immunity in the community.

Oxford-RCGP RSC PPI Team

Information Leaflets

Virology Swabbing

Serology Sampling

Patient Data

Patient & Public Newsletter

PPI Newsletter - Issue 1

Privacy Notices

For detailed information on how your data is used, please read our Data Subject Privacy Notice.

Patient & Public Group participation

Join our patient and public group at the RSC. Hear about opportunities to feed back on our surveillance monitoring studies and upcoming research projects.

Include form for contact and preference?

How & why is my data being used?

The data collected about diseases are shared with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). UKHSA is the government body that monitors public health in the UK. This data helps the government to identify disease outbreaks and assess how well vaccines are working. This helps to ensure that the NHS is ready to meet patient needs. 

Is my data safe?

The data collected is "pseudonymised“. This means personal details that can identify you are removed and replaced with a code number, and that only a portion of your information is used e.g., only the month and year of your birth date is shared. Some details are never shared e.g., your name, phone number, email address, etc.

For further information on your data and its role in the RSC research please refer to our Patient Data Leaflet.