A COVID-19 biobank opened at Columbia University to collect, process, store and disseminate specimens and health data for researchers.

Columbia University says the purpose of the biobank is to create a research resource with biological samples, such as blood and urine, along with health records to help researchers better understand, treat and even prevent diseases in the general population.

The COVID-19 Biobank at Columbia began collecting samples in March from patients.

All patients who were tested for COVID-19 at Columbia University Irving Medical Center/NewYork Presbyterian will be contacted by phone or email and asked to enroll in the CUB by signing a consent form and completing a survey.

MORE:LIVE BLOG - Coronavirus updates from the tri-state area and beyond 

MORE: TRACKER: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut coronavirus cases and deaths 

PHOTOS: COVID-19 Spreads Throughout The Globe