The infrared thermometer may not be reliable in screening for COVID-19.
COVID-19 still continues to spread and people are taking necessary precautions. One of the most common ways to make sure people stay safe in public spaces is using an infrared thermometer for screening. This helps in noting the temperature and determine if the person has a fever.
One of the most common symptoms of COVID-19 is fever and hence people are screened for it. In a recent study, it has been found that NCIT (Non-contact Infrared thermometers) is not a reliable way of determining if the person really does have a fever. It is not a reliable way to spread COVID-19 transmission.
The temperature taken through these thermometers depends on the number of factors including and not restricted to environmental, human, and equipment variables. It can affect the accuracy of the data accumulated
The statistics also show that NCIT has failed as a reliable screening test for SARS-CoV-2 infection. The results also show that it may give misleading readings and since the accuracy is in question, it may not be the best way to determine if the person is feverish or not.
There are ways to improve the methods of thermal screening and these are underworking. Better programs have to be made to make sure the readings are accurate and reliable.
