SARS screening system

Californian-based Indigo Systems Corporation, a global provider of infrared (IR) imaging solutions, and WinSoft Corporation have responded to the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) epidemic by developing a human skin/body temperature monitoring system with accuracy of plus/minus 0.5°C.

Omega, Indigo's smallest infrared imager, with WinSoft's state-of-the-art ThermaVU analysis software and continuous self-calibration mechanism delivers ThermaSense, a rugged, highly accurate, and complete system for monitoring skin/body temperatures.

Citing demands for a low-cost solution to Asia and several other regions, Indigo Systems' President/ceo Dr. E. Tim Fitzgibbons said: 'We wanted to respond to the many requests for a SARS screening system with an affordable, portable, and extremely accurate skin temperature monitoring module. Teaming with WinSoft Corporation's innovative software package, Indigo Systems has produced a low-cost, precision, advanced IR imaging system. Specifically designed with SARS in mind, this compact configuration can be quickly installed and easily operated in a variety of public venues.'

The Indigo and WinSoft Skin Temperature Monitoring Station can be set up at building entrances or airports to screen people as they walk in or wait in lines. This system images the facial area in real time and automatically self-calibrates to ensure highly accurate skin/body temperature readings. A person with a temperature reading outside a pre-set value in the monitoring station will trigger an alarm and alert the operator of the abnormal condition.

Today, most airline carriers, like Cathay Pacific, have regulations in place that state they will not carry a passenger with a body temperature of 37.5°C or above on any of their flights. Once identified, a feverish passenger can be directed to medical personnel for additional testing, isolation, and/or treatment.