The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
ARE INFRARED THERMOMETERS SAFE TO USE ON CHILDREN?
You may have seen the social media posts warning about the possible dangers of noncontact infrared thermometers. These devices, which are held up to a person’s forehead to take his or her temperature, are being widely used in schools and child care centers. The good news is the claims about their danger are false.
1. How do infrared thermometers work?
Like other types of thermometers, these devices measure the temperature of a surface. They do this by gathering the heat coming from the person (in this case, usually the person’s forehead). It is the infrared light coming from the person that is being gathered by the thermometer, not infrared light being projected to the person.
Reducing shared touch points is very important in slowing the spread of COVID-19 as well as other germs, which is why touch free devices like these are useful. They give us the information we need while lowering the risk of coming in contact with the virus. These devices are also very quick, which allows for rapid screening of a large number of people in a relatively short period of time, such as at hospital entrances, day care centers and schools.
2. How accurate are they?
No device is perfect, of course. And while you don’t need to worry about their safety, there are some concerns about how accurate these thermometers really are. Readings can be affected by clothing, drafts, direct sunlight and cold air. Because the temperature is being measured from the child’s forehead, for example, items such as winter hats or head bands can temporarily skew the results. However, this is easily corrected by reminding students to remove their hats as they enter the school or approach the building. A child’s temperature can also be retaken once they’re inside and warmed up.
3. What’s a normal temperature for children?
A “normal” temperature varies with the child’s age, activity, and time of day. A fever usually is a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher. This is a sign that the body is fighting an illness. Your child’s temperature, age and other signs of illness will help your doctor recommend treatment that is best for your child.
4. What causes high temperatures?
A fever is usually caused by infections from viruses (such as a cold or the flu) or bacteria (such as strep throat or some ear infections). The fever itself is not the disease, only a sign that the body’s defenses are trying to fight an infection.