With the current COVID-19 global pandemic, governments, companies, corporate entities, and SMEs, are doing their best to get back on track and curb the disease. While some countries are on complete lockdown, those that are still in full operation have to employ modern technology in testing people and putting them in quarantine in case they exhibit the symptoms of the virus. COVID-19, being a new disease, technology companies have come up with kits and equipment to test it.
Most equipments use thermal imaging and fever detection technology to test for elevated fever in human beings. There is a big question that most people ask. Can thermal imaging be useful in testing a virus? Well, the answer is no.
However, you can use thermal imaging to test for elevated fever in human beings. An increase in body temperature is a significant symptom of most infections and diseases. Therefore, we can say that thermal imaging is a useful tool for detecting disease symptoms in people.
Modern fever detection methods
The increasing demand for Fever Detection Systems Ireland should not come as a surprise. Most countries are currently on the move to enforce the most productive strategies that can help them combat the pandemic. During the 2002-2004 SARS outbreak, most states used fever detection systems to diagnose patients with the disease.
Since them, thermal imaging has become relevant and useful for detecting elevated temperatures. It is fast because it does not involve the usual laboratory processes, where the doctor collects a blood sample from the patient for a test.
Thermal imaging cameras seem to be more productive, accurate, and efficient compared to handle thermometers. By following the set guidelines for using the equipment, it is possible to get accurate results on temperature measurements.
The results you obtain when using thermal imaging equipment to test for elevated temperature depends mainly on how you handle the equipment and where you focus it. According to the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), the best part of the body to focus on when you want to test for elevated temperature is the lacrimal curuncle found around the eye.
Some factors may affect the results you obtain when using thermal imaging equipment. They include:
- Heavy sweating
- High Blood Pressure (HPB)
- Variations in heat distribution
- Variations in heart rate
- Location or environment temperatures
How to use a thermal imaging camera
The best way to get correct readings when using thermal imaging cameras is to ensure the individual you are testing faces the camera directly. Position the camera closes the individual to increase the accuracy. Because you will be obtaining an infrared image, you want to ensure that you capture all the crucial details. Focus on the area around the eyes.
A thermal imaging camera can convert every pixel on the image to an absolute readable temperature. When using thermal imaging cameras, you must compare the relative temperature of the equipment and objects in the scene to that which you obtain in your results.
Wrapping Up
During this COVID-19 outbreak, businesses should lay down the right measures to keep their customers safe from the virus. Therefore, using equipment like thermal imaging cameras can save a company a lot of money. The government can position this equipment at the entry point of malls, hospitals, public buildings, and other facilities to test everyone entering and leaving.
Unlike handle thermometers, thermal imaging cameras are faster and more efficient. Those using handled thermometers may still be at the risk of contracting a virus. All said, thermal imaging cameras, are the best tools to use for testing elevated temperature in people on a large scale.