Editor's Note: This article was originally published Oct. 22, 2020 and updated Dec. 10, 2020. Researchers now say there is an increased need for adults 65 and older to participate in the study. Details are in the article below.

Health experts agree: Understanding COVID-19 and how to stop the spread is key to returning to a normal life. But exactly how far has the virus spread in North Texas? That's the question researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center and Texas Health Resources hope to answer.

The hospital systems are recruiting volunteers for a new COVID-19 prevalence study. Participants will help local leaders make the best decisions, aimed at keeping you and your family healthy. The results could affect almost every step of the reopening process. 

Volunteers will complete an online survey. Some people will be offered free COVID-19 testing and a $20 gift card. Even if you are not selected for testing, every 50th person who submits a completed survey will receive a $20 gift card. If you are chosen for testing, you will receive a COVID-19 nasal swab test and a blood test for COVID-19 antibodies (indicating you were previously infected.)

There are testing sites located across Tarrant County. The complete list is available after you have completed the survey. The visit to the testing site will take about 20 minutes.

You do not need to have COVID-19 symptoms to participate in the study. 

If you're interested in participating, click here to begin the survey.

Click here for a printable flyer with more information. (Available in Spanish here)