Are Thermal Cameras Sufficient to Detect Coronavirus Carriers?

Thermal cameras have gained significant attention as potential tools in the fight against the coronavirus. However, their effectiveness in spotting people with slightly elevated temperatures who might be infected remains a subject of debate. In this article, we will explore the limitations and capabilities of thermal cameras in detecting coronavirus cases, addressing whether they are accurate enough for widespread use.

Thermal Imaging and Fever Detection

Thermal imaging cameras, also known as infrared thermometers, work by measuring the natural heat emitted from a person's forehead. These cameras can detect temperature variations, which can indicate if someone has a fever. However, the accuracy of these devices is a critical factor in their effectiveness.

While a fever is one of the most common symptoms of the coronavirus, not all carriers exhibit a high fever. In fact, many 'super spreaders'—individuals who unknowingly transmit the virus to others—do not show high temperatures at any stage of infection. This discrepancy raises questions about the reliability of thermal cameras in identifying all carriers of the disease.

Accuracy and Misconceptions

Thermal imaging cameras can certainly detect if someone has a fever. However, they cannot differentiate between a fever caused by the coronavirus and one caused by other infections. This limitation means that while a thermal camera may identify a person with a fever, it cannot confirm that the fever is specifically from the coronavirus.

Some argue that thermal cameras are effective in screening large groups, identifying those who may need further testing. Nonetheless, relying solely on thermal imaging can lead to false positives and negatives. For instance, a person without symptoms can still have the coronavirus and not show a fever. On the other hand, a person with a fever from other causes might not have the coronavirus.

Ben, who claimed to be a non-professional, noted that while thermal cameras can detect elevated skin temperatures, their effectiveness is limited. Business owners and organizations are purchasing these cameras in droves, but there is a concern that they may be over-relying on this technology. In Australia, researchers are even using drones equipped with thermal resin cameras to detect temperature variations, but these measures are not foolproof.

Limitations and Alternatives

The limitations of thermal cameras have led to a growing skepticism about their effectiveness in widespread testing. The primary issue is that these devices can only measure skin temperature and not internal body temperature, which is crucial for detecting coronavirus infections. Additionally, many people believe that a thermometer or taking body temperature readings is a more accurate method of detection.

Moreover, setting thermal cameras to identify individuals with elevated temperatures can lead to a significant number of false positives. A study on thermal cameras detecting breast cancer suggests that these devices might be capable of identifying abnormal temperature patterns, but this is still a developing field.

Conclusion

While thermal cameras can be useful as a preliminary screening tool, they cannot replace comprehensive testing and symptom monitoring. Blanket testing remains the most reliable method to identify carriers of the disease, as it can detect both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals.

For businesses and organizations considering the use of thermal cameras, it is essential to consider their limitations and to supplement these devices with other testing methods to ensure accurate and reliable identification of coronavirus carriers.