Utilizing technology as a method of contact tracing and surveillance to minimize the risk of contracting COVID-19 infection

Currently, there are two major forms of testing in the U.S.: testing for SARS-CoV-2 RNA and serologic testing [1,2]. However, only testing those experiencing symptoms is not a practical way of obtaining a true picture of the infection status of the nation, as the majority of infected individuals do not exhibit symptoms [3]. Healthcare personnel who are in close contact with ill patients may be asymptomatic themselves and unknowingly transmit the infection to others. A call for new methods of testing and surveillance on a large scale will be important if we hope to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infections.

Source: The American Journal of Emergency Medicine - July 3, 2020 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Brendon Sen-Crowe, Mark McKenney, Adel Elkbuli Source Type: research