Has your sense of smell or taste changed?

The Smell and Taste Evaluation in Ireland (STEVIE) survey was launched on Tuesday, 7 July, in response to reports that COVID-19 can impact smell and taste function.

The survey is open to anyone living in the Republic of Ireland, or Northern Ireland, who has either experienced a change in their sense of smell or taste during the COVID-19 pandemic, or who has been tested for COVID-19 (either positive or negative).

Coordinator of the study, Dr Emily Crofton, Research Officer in the Department of Food Quality and Sensory Science at Teagasc, says: “A change or loss to our senses of smell or taste has been officially recognised as a common symptom of COVID-19 infection in Ireland. Emerging evidence suggests that COVID-19 may have a different effect on our senses of smell and taste when compared to other viruses, such as influenza or the common cold.

“At the moment, very little information is available about whether changes in smell or taste perception is impacting on daily life and personal well-being in Ireland. By participating in this survey, we aim to capture the changes in smell and taste that may have come about as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The STEVIE survey is being organised through Sensory Food Network Ireland, which brings together researchers from research institutions across the island of Ireland.

To complete the survey, go to the following link: https://bit.ly/3e7RGIG.