Background

Childhood allergies and asthma are becoming more common worldwide. The MARI study, which stands for Microbes and Respiratory Illnesses, is looking at how environmental factors like living on farms or in cities impact children's health. 

Our research aims to understand why some kids are less likely to develop allergies and respiratory illnesses.

MARI logo

Our Goals

Child with inhaler outside, holding a large white American football.
  • Understand how growing up in different environments affects children's immune systems.
  • Investigate how our genes influence our bodies responses to cold, and flu viruses.
  • Identify differences in DNA patterns associated with illness severity.

 

Why It Matters

This research could lead to new ways to prevent childhood allergies and reduce the impact of respiratory illnesses. By understanding how the environment impacts health, we can help all children live healthier lives. 

Enrollment Criteria

This study will follow school-aged children for 3-4 months during the summer and back-to-school season, when cold and flu viruses are most common. Children who meet the following criteria may be eligible to enroll:

  • Are between the ages of 4-12 years old
  • Live in the greater Madison, Wisconsin area
  • Do not have frequent sinus infections

What to Expect: MARI Study Timeline

Study activities will be conducted over the phone, online, in-person at the UW Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, and at home. Participants will be compensated for their time.

For More Information

For more information about MARI or to enroll in the study:

MARI final_v2 QR

For Current Participants

Thank you so much for participating in the MARI study. Your contribution is invaluable in helping us advance our research!

This section is specifically for participants involved in the weekly nasal swabs in 2024. The dates for these swabs are:

  • September 7
  • September 14
  • September 21
  • September 28
  • October 5

Instructions and Resources

To assist you with the process, we have provided detailed instructions and resources (all links open in a new window):

Ship Swabs Right Away

It is crucial that the swabs are shipped and returned every week. This helps ensure the accuracy and integrity of the samples.

Additional Drop-Off Location

If shipping the samples is inconvenient for you, we will also be available at the entrance of the American Family Children’s Hospital (AFCH), located at 1675 Highland Ave, Madison, Wisconsin, 53792, on Mondays and Tuesdays from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM for sample drop-off. 

There is a circular driveway at the entrance where you can pull up and come inside to drop off your sample. A labeled table will be just to the right inside the main entrance.

American Family Children's Hospital overhead view
The American Family Children’s Hospital is located at 1675 Highland Ave, Madison, Wisconsin, 53792.
American Family Children's Hospital street view
The entrance to the American Family Children's Hospital pictured from University Avenue.

 

Entrance of the American Family Children's Hospital
The circular driveway at the entrance to the American Family Children's Hospital.

 

Questions?

We appreciate your commitment to this study and are here to support you throughout the process. 

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our study coordinators at 608-287-6387.