Caronavirus update: ‘Pandemic drones’ may soon be deployed to detect COVID-19

An Indian-origin researcher Javaan Chahl is leading a team of experts in developing a drone to detect coronavirus symptoms remotely. Read on to know more.

By: Jahnavi Sarma | | Updated: March 27, 2020 2:22 pm

This drone can be deployed in high-risk places like offices, cruise ships, airports, aged care homes and any other place that carries the highest risk of transmission. @Shutterstoch

With the coronavirus pandemic gaining in momentum and breaching new boundaries, experts across the world are trying to find ways to combat the threat. There is no cure as yet for the virus though clinical trials have started at different places of the world. The best option for people right now is to practice the precautionary guidelines and be safe because any vaccine or cure is still a long way away. This is a new strain of the family of coronaviruses. That is why scientists are having such a tough time finding ways to contain the spread. But now scientists have developed a drone to detect coronavirus cases. They actually made this technology to monitor the heart rates of premature babies. Experts also saw a use for it in war zones and also environmental and natural disaster zones. But now, in the face of the alarming pandemic, scientists say that it can be used to fight the alarming spread of the coronavirus and contain it. Also Read - Pets can reduce COVID-19 stress: Know how having a cat or a dog can boost your mental health

Pandemic drone to the rescue

In light of these developments, it is indeed good news that A team of researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA) have begun developing a drone to monitor patients with infectious respiratory conditions including the novel coronavirus. This team is led by an Indian-origin researcher Javaan Chahl, the chair of Sensor Systems within the Department of Defence, who holds a joint appointment with UniSA. According to researchers, these so-called ‘pandemic drones’ will be fitted with a special sensor. This sensor will be capable of remotely monitoring a person’s temperature as well as heart and respiratory rates. With social distancing being the norm of the day, this is a welcome development. Also Read - COVID-19 Live Updates: Cases in India surge to 1,82,143 as death toll reaches 5,164

Benefits of the new drone

Officials can use this drone in high-risk places like offices, cruise ships, airports, aged care homes and any other place that carries the highest risk of transmission. It will be able to detect people who are exhibiting typical coronavirus symptoms like coughing and sneezing. Scientists are being cautious and say that it will not help in detection of all cases. But it can still alert officials about cases within a specific group or community. Researchers are hopeful that it can be soon be put to use by governments, medical communities and commercial establishments. Also Read - Lack of ventilation ups risk of airborne transmission of COVID-19: Know what you can do about it

Click here for our latest updates on coronavirus.

Published : March 27, 2020 2:16 pm | Updated:March 27, 2020 2:22 pm

Read Disclaimer

Expert Speak: Stress management in the times of the coronavirus

Coronavirus treatment: Diabetes and hypertension drugs may be effective against this deadly virus

Pets can reduce COVID-19 stress: Know how having a cat or a dog can boost your mental health

COVID-19 Live Updates: Cases in India surge to 1,82,143 as death toll reaches 5,164

Lack of ventilation ups risk of airborne transmission of COVID-19: Know what you can do about it

Maintain social distancing of minimum 20 feet to be safe from COVID-19

Countries halt hydroxychloroquine trials as WHO raises safety concerns over its use in COVID-19 treatment

About The health Site

Useful Links