SYLYKI study

SYLYKI study aims to find out whether saliva or gargle specimens can be utilized in respiratory infections in children.

Project information

Project duration

-

Project coordinator

University of Oulu

Contact information

Project leader

Contact person

Project description

The use of nasopharyngeal samples has significantly increased, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sample collection can be unpleasant, particularly for children, and it consumes healthcare resources. Better sampling methods are needed. Regarding the SARS-CoV-2 virus, saliva samples appear to be feasible at least for adults. However, information is lacking regarding other respiratory pathogens and feasibility in children.

The goal of the SYLYKI study is to determine whether saliva or gargle specimens can replace nasopharyngeal samples when investigating the cause of respiratory infections in children. The study examines 22 different viruses and bacteria, comparing samples from the nasopharynx, saliva, and gargle collected from 535 participants with respiratory infections.

Children over the age of 2 years who present at the Oulu University Hospital (OYS) pediatric emergency department and undergo nasopharyngeal sampling based on clinical criteria are eligible to participate in the study.

The Association of Friends of the University Children's Hospitals

External link
The Association of Friends of the University Children's Hospitals funds saliva- and gargle-sample testing, which is conducted as part of the study.