COVID-19: A smart, innovative body temperature measurement system and early indication tool to identify possible infections such as COVID

An Austrian bio-medical engineering company, founded in 2016, has developed and produced an innovative temperature measurement system. The SME recognises the enormous potential of sensor technology and continuous temperature measurement in both the medical & healthcare industry as well as industrial markets. The company is already established in the global femtech fertility industry and has adapted this product to create diagnostic tools for the early detection of infections. In light of recent events, the system could be very useful in a Covid context. According to recent studies, a raised temperature or fever is one of the most common symptoms of a COVID-19 infection. During a viral infection, a fever can rise and then fall back to a normal level for a short time; temperature can be manipulated by external influences, intentionally or unintentionally. Single temperature measurements via infrared sensors are not a reliable form of fever detection, as they only deliver snap shot information. The Austrian SME's innovation is the only solution based on continuous temperature measurement over several days without impacting daily life. The system can identify a potential infection through continuous live measurements of an individual's body temperature over a longer period of time. It consists of a very precise temperature sensor (calibrated to a tolerance level of 0.1°C which measures body temperature every 10 minutes for up to 7-10 days) embedded in an adhesive skin patch which is placed under the arm, along with a supporting app. Temperature measurements are saved, data is transferred to a phone using NFC (Near Field Communication) and the temperature readings are displayed in the app in the form of curves and graphs. In the case of atypical curves, this can indicate the need for further action. The technology does not replace a COVID test, but can detect a possible infection at a very early stage and prevent misuse of resources by isolating possibly infected groups/individuals, who can then be tested. The patch can communicate with all handheld devices or smartphones, which are NFC compatible. The RFID chip in the patch is read passively via an NFC-enabled smartphone and, unlike Bluetooth, does not emit any permanent radiation. The recorded temperature data can be accessed and processed for further evaluation. All personal data is stored in encrypted form and is displayed exclusively for the user in the app. The current focus is on establishing the system as a prevention and security system in all kinds of industries. The patch shows potential not only in the healthcare sector, but also as an effective instrument to break chains of infection in a risk management setting. The system's dashboard provides an overview of the temperature status of many users (employees, visitors, patients) at the same time, without the time investment of individual measurements. Temperature trends of multiple groups or locations can be tracked. The SME has a strong core team, which has been together since the start-up phase bringing the initial idea to product launch. All development is carried out in-house while the production is outsourced to strategic partners. The solution functions cross platform, covers iOS and Android, is certified according to ISO13485 and complies with the MDD (Medical Device Directive). At present, a clinical trial is ongoing with plans to launch onto the world market later in 2021. The company seeks system integrators with component sub-systems for collaboration on the basis of commercial agreement with technical assistance. The solution enables companies and institutions to identify possible infections at an early stage, allowing them to take appropriate measures to protect their workforce/community as well as their economic performance. Organisations (e.g. health institutions, care homes) interested in buying a licence will also be considered. Customised solutions can be discussed.