Both experts and survivors of the disease have presented devastating implications regarding the coronavirus or COVID-19. Ever since it began to spread last December 2019, it seems that the coronavirus is testing the world’s disaster preparedness and response programs. From information dissemination to the availability of public health systems.
With the virus creeping up to millions of individuals around the world—both young and old—it is clear that no one is perfectly safe. As we continue to stay inside and practice safety precautions, others have committed to finding ways to help fight the virus while in lockdown.
Based on a paper by Dr. Mihalis Kritikos, here are five technologies that can be used to fight the virus.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) helps detect whether people carry coronavirus or not. As a standard technology in most hospitals around the world, AI detects visual signs associated with COVID-19. These are based on images from computerized tomography (CT) scans of a person’s lungs. It also helps monitor changes in body temperature through wearable sensors. AI can also provide information based on an open-source data platform to help track the spread of the disease.
3D Printing
3D printers allow the creation of small quantities of material at a low cost. Recently, 3D printers have played a vital role in producing necessary, hard-to-source medical equipment. Especially protective medical equipment such as face shields. Countries such as China, Italy, and the Philippines have employed the use of 3D printers to help account for its limited supplies.
Synthetic Biology
Through synthetic biology, scientists take a multidisciplinary approach to alter the genotype of a virus. Synthetic biologists apply cutting-edge tools to speed up the development of a successful vaccine.
Drones
Industrial drones have aided in food and medicine delivery, street and building disinfections, and other efforts to contain the virus. Drones help monitor quarantine measures, and traffic. It also helps spray disinfectants, and deliver supplies in infected areas. Especially in Wuhan, which is believed to be the birthplace of the virus. Most goods and services were delivered through drones to help maintain distancing and contain the spread of the virus.
Robots
Just like drones, robots help contain the spread of the coronavirus. Robots can assist to disinfect whole buildings, handle hazardous waste, and deliver food and medication. Some hospitals also use self-driving ultraviolet disinfection autonomous robots to help disinfect designated areas for patients such as isolation wards and intensive care units.
As we patiently wait for a vaccine, we can rest assured that despite the seeming invincibility of the virus at the moment, we have our brilliant innovators who continue to find ways to help the human race. So, let’s not forget to do our parts. Let’s continue to protect ourselves, so we can protect others as well.
