Thread by @AmandaKrupa

Thermal scanners finally getting attention for their inaccuracy in screening for #COVID19. I’ve covered thermography in detail over the pandemic in an effort to raise awareness about the differences in how #fever presents by age and even time of day. –a thread--

On March 4, 2021, the @US_FDA released a statement indicating “improper use of thermal imaging systems may lead to inaccurate body temperature measurements which can present potentially serious public health risks.” #publichealth
fda.gov/news-events/pr…

Today, @washingtonpost released a story highlighting the @US_FDA warnings on thermal scanners and recent research showing many of the devices use software that can make a feverish person appear perfectly well.
washingtonpost.com/technology/202…

In January 2021, I explained why body temperatures run lower in #seniors and included @IDSAInfo’s modified definition of #fever for older adults – a factor you won’t find included in thermal scanners. This is called a blunted fever response. @CareDotCom
care.com/c/stories/1714…

Last fall, I covered thermometers for @businessinsider. Rik Heller, founder of @Wello_Inc, told me not accounting for temperature anomalies is "a grave mistake from a public health standpoint in the middle of a pandemic."
businessinsider.com/best-thermomet…

Even though we are in a pandemic, don’t lose sight of the many other respiratory illnesses that may cause a fever. Not everything is #COVID19. In #babies, croup, pneumonia, RSV, ear infections, flu, severe colds, and sore throats can also cause fever.
businessinsider.com/best-baby-ther…

Until it is our turn for a #COVID19Vaccine, we all need to continue to be vigilant and limit our exposures.

Continue to social distance and #WearAMask even if your state is open.

Don’t rely on thermal scanners to protect you from getting the virus.

@threadreaderapp unroll please